Science Friday
Functional Fashion From An Artist And A Caterpillar
May 7, 2025
Entomologist Dan Rubinoff from the University of Hawaii at Manoa reveals the intriguing world of the bone collector caterpillar, which dons a unique coat made from its prey’s remains for camouflage. He shares insights on its survival strategies and the ecological significance of this discovery. Meanwhile, artist Laura Devendorf discusses her innovative work with e-textiles that can remember personal experiences, even creating a dress that plays back memories of interactions with her kids. Get ready for a blend of nature and technology!
18:45
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Quick takeaways
- The bone collector caterpillar, through its unique camouflage, highlights important evolutionary adaptations necessary for survival in isolated ecosystems like Hawaii.
- Artist Laura Devendorf's work with programmable textiles envisions clothing that stores and communicates personal experiences, challenging traditional perceptions of fashion.
Deep dives
The Fascinating Bone Collector Caterpillar
A newly discovered species of caterpillar, known as the bone collector caterpillar, has unique survival tactics, including living in spider webs and feeding on trapped insects. This caterpillar actively scavenges remains of arthropods and decorates itself with body parts for camouflage, making it less appealing to its main predator, the spider. By incorporating the remains of its meals into its silk case, the caterpillar successfully evades detection and reinforces its survival in a challenging environment. Its lifestyle, unusual among the roughly 0.1% of carnivorous caterpillars, highlights intriguing evolutionary adaptations in isolated ecosystems like Hawaii.
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