The mantis shrimp punch is one of the most incredible feats of biomechanics.

The mantis shrimp punch is one of the most powerful strikes in the animal kingdom. Mantis shrimp, specifically smashers (a type of mantis shrimp), use specialized club-like appendages to deliver punches at speeds of up to 50 mph (80 km/h), with forces exceeding 1,500 newtons.

How the punch works?

The mantis shrimp punch is powered by a spring-loaded mechanism in its raptorial appendages. Unlike typical muscle-powered movements, the mantis shrimp relies on a specialized locking system that allows it to store immense potential energy. A flexible ligament acts like a spring, while the shrimp’s powerful flexor muscles pull the appendage back, “cocking” it in place. A latch mechanism holds the stored energy until release, at which point the limb accelerates at 10,000 g, reaching speeds of 50 mph (80 km/h) in under three milliseconds. The sheer force of the impact is equivalent to a .22 caliber bullet, strong enough to shatter crab shells, break open clams, and even crack aquarium glass.

The punch is so fast that it creates cavitation bubbles, tiny pockets of vapor in the water that collapse with explosive force. This collapse generates a secondary shockwave, amplifying the damage even if the initial strike misses. The temperature in these bubbles briefly reaches nearly 4,700°C (as hot as the Sun’s surface), sometimes even producing flashes of light. Despite delivering such powerful strikes, the mantis shrimp’s appendages remain intact due to a shock-absorbing exoskeleton made of crystalline calcium phosphate and chitin arranged in spiral structures. This allows them to punch repeatedly without breaking their own limbs, making them one of the most effective predators in the ocean.

How Do Mantis Shrimp Survive Their Own Punch?

Mantis shrimp survive their own devastating punches thanks to a highly specialized shock-absorbing exoskeleton in their club-like appendages. Their striking limbs consist of three distinct layers: a hard crystalline calcium phosphate outer layer that prevents surface cracks, a dense chitin core arranged in a spiral structure that distributes impact forces, and a shock-absorbing impact zone that reduces stress and prevents fractures. This unique structure acts like a natural armor and suspension system, allowing the shrimp to deliver repeated high-speed blows without damaging itself. Additionally, the gradual energy dissipation throughout these layers prevents fractures from spreading, ensuring that their deadly weapons remain intact and functional for continuous use in hunting and defense.

Can a Mantis Shrimp Punch Hurt a Human?

Yes, a mantis shrimp punch can seriously injure a human due to its immense speed and force. Their strikes can deliver up to 1,500 newtons of force, which is strong enough to break bones, cause deep cuts, and even puncture flesh. There have been cases where mantis shrimp have broken aquarium glass and split open human fingers, making them dangerous to handle without protection. While they are not aggressive toward humans, they will strike defensively if threatened or provoked. Due to their extreme punching power and sharp, club-like appendages, it’s best to admire them from a safe distance rather than risk a painful encounter.