Mantis Shrimp's Punch Reveals Groundbreaking Shockwave Filtering Mechanism

Scientists uncover how the crustacean's dactyl club withstands extreme impacts, inspiring potential innovations in material design.

The mantis shrimp's dactyl club can deliver strikes with the force of a .22 caliber bullet, yet it remains undamaged due to its unique structural design.
Researchers identified a layered Bouligand structure within the club that selectively filters high-frequency stress waves, protecting the shrimp's delicate tissues.
The impact region of the club is reinforced with mineralized fibers in a herringbone pattern, preventing fractures during intense blows.
The findings could inspire the development of synthetic materials for protective gear, blast injury prevention, and energy-harvesting implants.
Future studies aim to explore the club's properties through 3D simulations and advanced underwater experiments for a deeper understanding of its mechanics.