The Urodid moth spins an incredible open-net cocoon around its pupa not for beauty but for survival. While the weave may seem more vulnerable to predators, the benefits are numerous: more airflow which prevents the formation of fungus and mould, no catchment of rainfall which could result in drowning and a structure that makes it harder for ants to feed on the pupa.

Also, MIT researchers recently constructed an ethereal-looking geodesic dome inspired and constructed by the figure-eight spinning patterns of silkworms. Watch it in HD, it’s worth it. It’s amazing to see natural and artificial construction techniques combine to create something beautiful and ephemeral.