Science Friday Functional Fashion From An Artist And A Caterpillar
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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!
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Bone Collector Caterpillar's Camouflage
- The bone collector caterpillar decorates itself with the body parts of its prey to camouflage in a spider web.
- This unique survival strategy fools the predatory spider into ignoring the caterpillar.
Extinction Crisis in Hawaii
- This bone collector caterpillar is the last of its lineage, highlighting an ongoing extinction crisis in Hawaii.
- Many unique species may have disappeared before scientists had a chance to discover them.
Discovery of Bone Collector Caterpillar
- Dan Rubinoff discovered the bone collector caterpillar on a mountain trail in Hawaii by spotting a tiny bag covered in bug bits.
- They reared it and confirmed it was a new species that embellishes itself with prey remnants.