Bioinspiration: Exploring Levels of Adaptation in Nature for Innovation in Design

Nature's evolution lasted 3.8 billion years and offers efficient and sustainable solutions by utilizing only the necessary resources. This study clarifies the terminologies Bionic, Biomimetic, and Biomimicry and defines three levels of adaptation for inspiration from nature's strategies: morphological, physiological or functional, and behavioral. We highlight the complex internal movement between different elements that enable adaptation from the micro to the macrostructure of a given organism. We exemplify the levels of adaptation in bioinspired reference projects such as stain-resistant paint, modules for kinetic facades, and the learning from the evolutionary growth of slime mold for urban planning (experiment on the Tokio subway system). The E-seed project encompasses all three levels, inspired by the Erodium seed and providing a solution for automated reforestation. We conclude that designers can adopt isolated levels or explore the complexity of the interrelations between the distinct levels of adaptation to drive innovation.