If you worry about robots taking over the world, it's reassuring to know that by cutting off the power source we can stop them. Now a researcher at the University of Maine has developed a robotic version of the Venus Flytrap, providing a potential fuel source for future robots.

Mohsen Shahinpoor says that his robotic fly trap works in much the same way as nature's version, with tiny sensor hairs that trigger an electronic current to snap the two leaves together trapping the unsuspecting insect. Shahinpoor's trap doesn't actually digest the bug, but other robots have already been developed which can digest the insect as a source of electrical power.

Putting these two technologies together could lead to a scary scenario, where robots can chow down on insects and other handy fuels sources to keep running without human support.

New Scientist, via PopSci