I just saw this amazingly hopeful use for a 3D printer: making shellters for homeless hermit crabs. Makerbot is working with Miles Lightwood of Team Team USA on a crowd-sourcing project called Project Shellter. The concept is for people to send in their designs for the hermit crab shells, which will be printed and tested on hermit crabs to see which design attracts them.
Because hermit crabs change shells frequently through their lives, shells of varying sizes are needed to accommodate their growth. As there is a lack of shells for them to use, they are using anything they can find to create their protective home. We have to wonder if our actions that affect air and water quality are also affecting the longevity of their shells. So, this is a wonderful way to use 3D printing in order to protect another species. Hopefully, the proper biodegradable materials are used to help keep things safe for all. Science and art coming together in the most inspirationally creative way!
– found through DesignTaxi post
