For decades, scientists have been developing soft robots inspired by a creature often taken for granted - the humble earthworm.
Though specific features will vary by species, many earthworms are excellent burrowers, and can bend with ease.
"They are very flexible and move through spaces that might be difficult to access," comments Elsa Arrázola-Vásquez, who researches soil management at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences.
In other words, earthworms can do things that many machines still cannot.
By Christine Ro for BBC