Nature’s Velcro

Ecclesiastes 1:9
“The thing that hath been, it [is that] which shall be; and that which is done [is] that which shall be done: and [there is] no new [thing] under the sun.”

The loop-and-hook fastener called Velcro has come a long way since it first appeared. Velcro goes into space as a light, easy-to-use fastener. Here on Earth, it’s replacing everything from laces in children’s shoes to buttons and zippers on coats.

However, humans were not the inventors of the hook-and-loop fastener. Plants were the first to use this principle. Scientists learned about the principle when they were checking out stories of how bean leaves were used to trap bedbugs during World War II. They discovered that the hooked hairs on the underside of bean leaves did indeed trap bedbugs by their feet. The bedbugs stayed stuck to the leaves until they starved to death.

In nature, the hooked hairs trap leafhoppers, leaving them unable to munch on the leaves of bean plants. Further research has shown that some varieties of wheat trap the cereal leaf beetle, preventing damage to their leaves.

Most amazing of all is the timing of this defense. Plants that use this method to protect themselves don’t start growing the hairs until a few days before the annual attack by their insect enemies!

Humans might think their inventions are clever. However, because God is smarter than we are, it is very likely that somewhere, somehow, He has already created nearly every practical invention. This is yet another argument for creation!

Prayer:
I thank You, Father, that in commanding us to subdue creation, You guided us to discover what You have already invented. Help our technology glorify You by giving Christians who are working in the sciences insights into Your inventions. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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