Many elements in nature are the perfect shape and size. Items like pinecones, feathers, star fruits, plants, and more are examples of perfect geometric shapes with precise repetitions.
Humans like to recreate many of these patterns in art or architecture because the science and physics behind all these examples work without flaws. Understanding geometric shapes in nature and the science behind it can explain how other living things grow and thrive.
Patterns in nature
A pattern in nature involves a repetition of shapes, not necessarily identical but very similar; these patterns exist in almost everything around you. Many details in things your daily life include some form of repetition that serves a purpose. For example, the leaves on trees are symmetrical, with little veins that repeat almost exactly—their purpose is to evenly distribute light and nutrients, but they also provide beautiful designs and patterns.
Perfect beehives
One of the most impressive examples of hard work, nature, and geometric shapes comes from bees. The hexagons that bees build inside the hive exist because they need to maximize storage space while using the least amount of wax.
The design of honeycombs allows each section to fit perfectly one on top of the other, which can create an endless chain of functional, connected shapes—this is one of the reasons why bees create perfect hexagons.
Nautilus seashells
A fractal is a pattern that seemingly never ends. This phenomenon is very evident in the shell of the nautilus. This amazing pattern has a natural function that goes beyond evolution and movement.
The design of this shell allows it to withstand large amounts of pressure underwater—the varying sizes of the inner cavities displace water and air to aid the nautilus in navigating underwater. This fractal in evolution proves that adapting to surroundings is necessary for a multitude of reasons.
Romanesco broccoli
This type of broccoli is a clear example of geometric shapes in nature, and the science behind it proves that nature is never wrong—it is the result of combining two different plants. This broccoli is very popular because it showcases the fractal design to a large extent, and is yet another piece of evidence that natural patterns allow for growth and survival.
Some shapes have a purpose, while some are the result of a combination of factors that worked out well in the end. Either way, fractals, patterns, and geometry will continue to thrive in nature.
Sorry. Loved the green picture. Who took it. Is the geometric shape totally from nature? Would like to know, if possible. Thanks. Niall.