Saeidi, NavidNavidSaeidiJafari, MohammadMohammadJafariEbrahimi, ParastooParastooEbrahimiSalehi, ParsaParsaSalehi2026-09-152026-09-152026-06-23Case Studies in Construction Materials 25: e06265 (2026)https://hdl.handle.net/11420/64858We investigated the epidermal morphology, microstructure, and mechanical properties of the stem of Cuscuta reflexa (dodder) to uncover the mechanisms underlying its high mechanical strength. Natural stems and experimentally fabricated bio-inspired models were examined using microscopy, numerical simulations, and mechanical testing. The results show that the stem’s distinctive curved brick-and-mortar architecture plays a critical role in enhancing mechanical performance, providing superior strength compared to conventional stem structures (e.g., those with straight interfaces). This bio-inspired curved configuration produces tensile stress–strain curves shifted to higher stress levels relative to simple (uncurved) brick-and-mortar designs, enabling the structure to withstand greater tensile loads before failure. Furthermore, flexural tests on the bio-inspired models demonstrated a 20% increase in flexural strength for the modified curved brick-and-mortar structure compared to the basic uncurved configuration. Crack propagation in the modified composite is influenced by elevated shear stress at the interfaces, promoting preferential crack growth perpendicular to the loading direction (horizontal) within the hard mortar phase. This behavior enhances fracture toughness through longer crack propagation paths and increased energy dissipation. Additionally, the larger interfacial area and higher mortar volume fraction in the modified structure contribute to more efficient load transfer and improved crack resistance.en2214-50952026Elsevierhttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/Bio-inspirationDodder (Cuscuta reflexa)Flexural testingNumerical analysisTechnology::620: Engineering::620.1: Engineering Mechanics and Materials Science::620.11: Engineering MaterialsJournal Article10.1016/j.cscm.2026.e0626510.15480/882.18425