The mantis shrimp, a small but mighty ocean predator, possesses a unique ability to strike prey with incredible force without harming itself. Researchers from the US and France, in February 2025, discovered the secret lies in a specialized microstructure within the shrimp's dactyl club, the hammer-like appendage used for striking.
This microstructure provides phononic shielding, blunting acoustic waves and weakening recoil. Using lasers, scientists observed the structure's response at less than one-billionth of a second, revealing its ability to prevent energy waves of certain frequencies from passing through. The findings challenge the belief that metamaterials, which guide energy flow, are solely lab-created.
The discovery has potential applications in developing synthetic sound-filtering materials for protective gear. This could lead to improved earmuffs for soldiers and new approaches to reducing blast-related injuries in both military and sports settings. Researchers are now working on biomimetic structures inspired by the mantis shrimp, exploring how these structures trap waves and convert trapped energy into other forms.