The mantis shrimp sounds like a mix between two animals — and in a way, it is. This colorful sea creature looks like a shrimp with the personality of a boxer and is famous for its speed, power, and bizarre eyes. Scientists have been fascinated for years by this little predator that resembles more of an underwater superhero than an ordinary crustacean.
Here are 10 mind-blowing facts about the mantis shrimp.
1. It’s neither a shrimp nor a mantis
Despite its name, the mantis shrimp is not a true shrimp, nor is it a mantis. It belongs to a separate group of crustaceans called Stomatopoda, and only looks like a mix of the other two.
2. It punches hard — and fast
Mantis shrimps use their front limbs like fists. Some species strike at speeds of over 80 km/h (50 mph). That’s powerful enough to crack a crab’s shell — or even shatter aquarium glass. No joke.
3. Its punch creates boiling water and light
The strike is so fast that it causes the surrounding water to momentarily vaporize, creating a collapsing air bubble. This phenomenon is called cavitation. It generates heat, pressure, and even a flash of light. In other words: this shrimp punches so hard, it delivers a double blow.
4. It sees colors like no other creature
The eyes of the mantis shrimp are straight out of science fiction. While humans have three color receptors (red, green, blue), it has up to 16. It can detect ultraviolet and polarized light waves. What does that mean? It sees colors we can’t even imagine.
5. Each eye can focus independently
The eyes of the mantis shrimp move independently and each has three parts capable of perceiving depth. This makes its vision not only incredibly complex but also nearly impossible for prey to escape.
6. It’s territorial and ruthless
6. It’s territorial and ruthlessThe mantis shrimp often lives alone in burrows or crevices in the reef. It fiercely defends its territory and attacks without warning. Other animals instinctively steer clear of this tiny warrior.
7. Some species stab, others smash
There are roughly two types of mantis shrimp: spearers (with sharp claws to impale fish) and smashers (with club-like limbs to break shells). Each type is a specialist in its own hunting technique.
8. Their lifespan varies widely
Most species live 3 to 6 years in the wild. This includes brightly colored examples like the peacock mantis shrimp (about 4–6 years).
In captivity, some can survive longer, and there are rare cases — especially among monogamous species that form long-term bonds — where individuals can live up to 20 years. But that’s not typical in the wild.
9. They use their colors to communicate
Many species are vividly colored — bright green, blue, red, or even rainbow-like. These colors aren’t for camouflage but serve as signals to other mantis shrimps, either to warn rivals or attract mates.
10. They inspire scientists and engineers
10. They inspire scientists and engineersThe vision and punch of the mantis shrimp have sparked research in robotics, imaging technology, and armor design. Its “fist,” for example, is made of a natural composite that is extremely light and strong — perfect for developing new materials.
