These Baby Shrimp Really Pack a Punch!

Mantis shrimp are known for their powerful punches, capable of breaking aquarium glass. This ability is due to a unique saddle-shaped joint that stores elastic energy, similar to a bow and arrow. Baby mantis shrimp develop this mechanism early, allowing them to punch with significant speed. Despite being smaller, their punches are slightly slower than adults due to water resistance. Researchers study these transparent shrimp to understand the mechanics in real-time, providing insights into both biology and physics.

What unique ability do mantis shrimps possess that allows them to stun their prey?

How does the punching mechanism of baby mantis shrimps compare to that of adults?

What role does the saddle-shaped joint play in the mantis shrimp's punching ability?

How do researchers benefit from studying the transparent bodies of baby mantis shrimps?

Why might baby mantis shrimps punch slower than adults despite their powerful mechanism?