Recent studies have shown that in crowded conditions plants ‘communicate’ with other plants to avoid competing situations. ​

This is done by releasing chemical secretions into the soil by the cortex of this part. ​

Which part of the plant are we talking about?

Biomimicry is the imitation of characteristics from nature for the purpose of finding solutions to everyday problems.​

This building in Qatar was modelled on a certain plant because of the way they survive in the hot and dry environment.​

Which plant are we talking about?

Shown here is the ‘Smartflower’ solar system which is a state-of-the-art solar panel that tracks the sun as it moves across the sky. ​

Thereby it can generate more electricity than a conventional solar panel.​

Which flower that exhibits similar characteristics is this inspired by?​

The Baobab trees also called ‘bottle trees’, grows in dry regions of Africa and Australia.​

The bark of the tree is so soft that elephants are known to poke holes into it, in order to reach the inner spongy part.​

Why do you think elephants exhibit such behavior? 

The National Emblem of Indonesia, the ‘Garuda Pancasila’ carries a shield that represents the national ideologies of the country. ​

In the top right corner of the shield is a tree, which represents unity out of many far-flung cultural roots since it is known for having large aerial roots and branches that strengthen it. ​

Which tree is this?

 After returning from a hunting trip with his dog in the Alps in 1941, Swiss engineer George de Mestral noticed some burdock seeds had stuck to his clothes and his dog’s fur. ​

This inspired him to invent the hook and loop fasteners. How do we better know this sticky product?