This article was taken from the November 2014 issue of WIRED magazine. Be the first to read WIRED's articles in print before they're posted online, and get your hands on loads of additional content by subscribing online.
The fig wasp's egg-laying needle has already inspired a neurological probe, designed at Imperial College London. Now a team at the Indian Institute of Science is studying it for further lessons. Researcher Lakshminath Kundanati explains why.
Segmented Build The needle has sections that slide over each other push to "allow the insect to push eggs along the tube," says Kundanati. "The sliding action helps cut tissue."
The Tip The tip of the rear section is curved, allowing the wasp to steer the needle pushing it. Serrations at the front help cut tissue and anchor the needle as it drills into the fig.
Composition The tip is zinc, "which makes it far tougher than the rest of the needle," says Kundanati. Zinc is bioabsorble and is being tested for use in implants and cardiac stents.
Added Strength Small perforations through the rest of the needle allow it to bend without cracking. "It can absorb a lot of energy during drilling, and quickly bounce back into shape.
Mixed Sensors "A chemical sensor helps the insect identify when it has reached its target," explains Kundanati. "And a mechanical sensor allows it to detect if it is cutting hard or soft tissue."
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
