Researchers at Cornell University have pioneered an innovative approach to robotics by harnessing the unique properties of fungal mycelia to power two proof-of-concept robots. Mycelia, the intricate underground networks of fungi that produce mushrooms above ground, are known for their ability to sense environmental factors such as light and chemical reactions, and even communicate through electrical signals. By integrating these natural capabilities into robotics, the Cornell team has opened the door to a new realm of hybrid robots that could one day detect and respond to crop conditions that are otherwise invisible to human senses.
The research team, which included experts in mycology, neurobiology, mechanical engineering, electronics, and signal processing, developed two distinct robots: a soft, spider-like robot and a four-wheeled buggy. They used the mycelia’s light-sensing abilities to control these machines with ultraviolet (UV) light, demonstrating the potential of biological systems in advanced robotics.
Lead author Anand Mishra highlighted the unique advantages of using living systems in robotics. Unlike traditional sensors, which are typically designed for single functions, living systems like mycelia can respond to a variety of stimuli, including touch, light, heat, and even unknown signals. “That’s why we think, OK, if you wanted to build future robots, how can they work in an unexpected environment? We can leverage these living systems, and any unknown input comes in, the robot will respond to that,” Mishra explained.
The researchers employed an electrical interface that filtered out interference from vibrations and electromagnetic signals, allowing them to record and process the mycelia’s electrophysical activity in real time. This data was then fed into a controller designed to mimic a portion of an animal’s central nervous system, effectively serving as a “neural circuit” for the robots. The controller translated the fungi’s electrical signals into digital commands, which were then used to control the robots’ movements.
In a series of experiments, the “shroom-bots” demonstrated their ability to respond to the mycelia’s signals by walking and rolling, and even altering their gaits when exposed to UV light. The team also successfully demonstrated the ability to override the mycelia’s signals and control the robots manually, a crucial feature for potential future applications in real-world environments.
Looking ahead, the researchers envision more advanced versions of these fungal-powered robots that could utilize mycelia’s ability to sense chemical reactions. Senior author Rob Shepherd, a professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at Cornell, suggested that future iterations could be designed to detect soil chemistry in crops, enabling robots to make decisions about when to add fertilizer, potentially reducing the environmental impact of agriculture. “Perhaps mitigating downstream effects of agriculture like harmful algal blooms,” Shepherd noted.
This research represents a significant step forward in the development of biologically integrated robots, offering new possibilities for responsive, adaptive machines that could revolutionize agricultural practices and environmental monitoring.