Mantis Shrimp. (p@ragon)
A new study reveals the secrets behind the strength of the mantis shrimp’s claw at the molecular level. It turns out this appendage is ideally adapted to deliver punishing blow after punishing blow without breaking. These adaptations are already inspiring researchers to engineer biology-mimicking materials that could inspire everything from better boat propellers to safer body armor.
Look how pretty it is!
Orchid Mantis (Hymenopus coronatus) - Malaysia
From Wikipedia:
This species is characterized by brilliant and beautiful coloring and unusual structure; their four walking legs resemble flower petals, and the coloration of the bodies tends to match the environment in which they were raised. H. coronatus shows some of the most pronounced sexual dimorphism of any species of mantis; the males are generally less than half the size of the females. Young nymphs resemble ants with orange and black bodies. As the mantis grows in its environment, its color comes to more closely match the coloration of its surroundings with each passing molt. It has been theorized that humidity and intensity of light play a large role in the final coloration of the adult.
(Various photos from Google Images)
I love Orchid Mantis. I think Mantis are fascinating, and Orchid Mantis are so beautiful.
(via letthew00kiewin)
Can you believe this is a bug! It’s an Orchid Mantis.
