Fine-Tuned for Strength (IMAGE) Brown University Caption The Venus' flower basket sea sponge has hair-like appendages that hold it in place on the sea floor. Research led by Brown University engineers shows that the internal structure of those fibers is fine-tuned for strength. A cross section of an appendage (left) shows that the internal layers diminish in thickness toward the outside. The predictions of a mechanical model (right) suggest that this pattern contributes the appendages' strength. Credit Kesari Lab / Brown University Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.