Emily Flores
If evolution held auditions for “the most advanced creature,” the mantis shrimp would’ve landed the lead. It’s built like a weapon and armed with senses that don’t make sense. There’s a reason it’s constantly blowing minds in biology labs and aquarium tanks alike. Nothing about it feels normal on purpose. Here are 10 abilities that prove mantis shrimps are no ordinary crustacean.
Lands The Fastest Punch In The Animal Kingdom
Mantis shrimp punches hit with a speed of 50 mph, faster than a speeding car! The strike is an impressive 10,000 times the force of gravity, which creates cavitation bubbles that can briefly reach temperatures like the sun. This remarkable power even has the force to crack aquarium glass.
Packs A Built-In Weapon Arsenal
Have you ever seen a creature that comes equipped with its own weaponry? Some mantis shrimp have club-like limbs that strike with 1,500 newtons of force, while others come with sharp, lightning-fast spearing claws. Whether smashing or spearing, these shrimp are ready for battle at a moment’s notice!
Sees Colors Humans Can’t Even Imagine
Mantis shrimp have eyes that are out of this world! With 12 to 16 types of photoreceptor cells, they can see a spectrum of colors humans can’t even imagine. These little creatures also spot ultraviolet light. Plus, their eyes move independently, and their vision is totally on the next level.
Sees The World In Circularly Polarized Light
Detecting circularly polarized light gives this species a massive tactical edge. That rare vision helps it find prey, stay hidden from threats, and communicate with its own kind using light-based signals on its body. It’s the only animal known to pull this off and make it a standout underwater predator.
Has Trinocular Vision In Each Eye
Trinocular vision grants the species unmatched depth perception. Each eye breaks into three zones, allowing it to judge distance with just one. That means total accuracy from multiple angles. Only a few animals come close to this level of precision. Its visual system is even analyzed in engineering labs today.
Communicates In Secret Visual Codes
Out on the reef, mantis shrimp have their own private light show. They flash polarized signals that most sea creatures can’t even see. Some flashes say, “Back off,” while others mean, “Hey there.” Different species use different light codes and keep their conversations quiet and totally off-limits to unwanted guests.
Can Break Through Hard-Shelled Prey With Ease
The mantis shrimp feeds on hard-shelled prey, including crabs and snails. Its club-like limbs strike with greater force than a .22 caliber round. These strikes generate shockwaves that injure prey even without a direct hit. This capability allows the mantis shrimp to hunt species that most marine predators are unable to consume.
Lives In Complex Burrows With A Purpose
Burrows serve as more than just hideouts; they also play a major role in daily survival. For starters, adults dig these tunnels to ambush prey, store food, rest, and even mate. Meanwhile, juveniles typically disperse early and leave the digging to adults. In some species, burrow walls are reinforced with shells or scattered debris.
Can Regrow Lost Limbs
Mantis shrimp can regenerate lost limbs through a process tied to their molting cycles. After several molts, the new limb becomes fully functional. This ability helps them recover from injury and maintain survival in hostile environments. Limb regrowth adds to their overall resilience and adaptability on the ocean floor.
Fiercely Territorial And Highly Strategic
Mantis shrimp are known for aggressive territorial defense. However, they don’t fight blindly. Before attacking, many assess the opponent and may choose to retreat or strike weak points. Some species can even recognize familiar rivals. The behavior highlights a balance between boldness and strategy in their daily survival.