From nature: Optics, nanotechnology, and nano-optics

Abstract The presence of nanomaterials in nature always inspired us to tackle the mysterious world of nanoscience by mimicking it. The origin of nature-inspired nanotechnology can be traced back to natural structures that evolved millions of years ago. Nature has been using nanotechnology to repel water, create color, and prevent infections since the beginning of time. However, even though these phenomena in nature appear to be simple, they are always a challenge for nanoscientists and engineers to imitate. It is therefore important to have a better understanding of some of the basic nano wonders in nature and their artificial counterparts. In this chapter, we describe some common but complicated nanophenomena occurring in nature by giving emphasis to nature-inspired nanophotonics and optical structures with suitable examples.