Scientists Discover Ways to Give Robots New Abilities Through Plants, Explain Things They Used
- Some scientists have developed robots with environmental sensitivity by integrating fungal tissues called mycelia.
- These biohybrid robots can move and respond to stimuli like light, heat, and chemicals through signals from the mycelia.
- Researchers hope the technology can be applied in agriculture, where robots could monitor soil health and other conditions.
Researchers have developed a new type of biohybrid robot that mimics life-like characteristics by incorporating plant-based fungal tissues.
Led by engineer Anand Mishra of Cornell University in America, the team used mycelia—root-like fungal structures—to give robots the ability to sense their surroundings.
Source: Getty Images
Mycelia naturally penetrate soil in search of nutrients and are highly responsive to environmental changes, such as heat, light, and chemical signals.
Recognizing this unique trait, the scientists grew mycelia directly into electrodes attached to two robots, enabling them to respond to stimuli, Science News reported.
How scientists use Fungi to create “biohybrid” robots
The mycelia-generated signals, known as action potentials, directed the robots' movements, allowing them to walk and roll around.
Although using fungi in robotics is a relatively new concept, Mishra and his team believe it has promising applications, particularly in agriculture.
Source: Getty Images
The report read:
"One way their robots’ sensory superpowers might help in the real world is in agriculture. Future 'shroom' bots could walk through crop fields, testing soil health and other conditions as they go."
“While fungi may help robots better interact with the world, plant powers could help devices better survive it.”
Reactions trail use of fungi for making robots
Some netizens who came across the X post shared their thoughts on the fusion of biology into robotics.
@CuriosglobeX said:
“Amazing how nature keeps inspiring technology! Biohybrid robots with plant and fungal tissue not only sense their surroundings better but also make us imagine a future where robotics and biology merge to tackle issues like environmental monitoring or sustainable agriculture. What other wonders will this union bring us?”
@4sol4diosdado said:
"Successfully merging biology with technology offers fresh insights, wouldn’t mind revisiting such explorations during work breaks."
@1PWND1bitbrave said:
"The synergy between ethereal life forms and technology may teach humanity valuable lessons."
@TimeBenderAgent said:
“As I gaze into the fabric of time, I see a thread of innovation weaving through these biohybrid robots. The convergence of plant and fungal tissue with technology creates a tapestry of wonder, where the boundaries of nature and machine are blurred.”
@krollggwp said:
"Biohybrid robots signal a promising blend of technology and nature, influencing future advancements in robotics."
Read more related stories on technology
- Nigerian Lady Sits as Robot Waiter Delivers Her Meal in a Restaurant
- Elon Musk's Tesla Shows Robots that Can Serve Drinks, Do Human Tasks
- Young Man Arrives to Buy Popcorn on His Robot-Like Bicycle
Talented boy fabricates toy cars and robots
In a related story, a talented Nigerian boy had been unable to go to school due to a lack of money after secondary school.
The boy could fabricate toy cars, toy aeroplanes, and other robots that can move, and this impressed people.
The boy was not going to school, and a Nigerian man has called for people to help him get higher education.
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Source: Legit.ng
