Mantis Shrimp

This beautiful beast of the deep is more powerful than it looks. The peacock mantis shrimp is not a peacock, mantis or a shrimp.  Who came up with that name anyway? They are stomatopods which are distant relatives to crabs, shrimp and lobsters.

Don’t even consider getting one for your home aquarium. They are so strong they could crack the glass with a swift left and right. They will also eat their tank mates. The peacock mantis shrimp uses its dactyl clubs to pummel its prey. These fists spring from their bodies at 50 miles per hour delivering 160 pounds of force. They have the fastest punch in the world with the same acceleration as a 22-caliber bullet. Their punches are so fast, they create light and heat. There are other mantis shrimps known as spearers. These ones brandish claws lined with barbed tips that they use to stab their soft-bodied prey.

Some mantis shrimp can signal each other using their maxillipeds that are marked with iridescent blue spots. These spots reflect light enabling them to send secret messages that their predators can’t see.  

They have very complex eyes that independently roam and offer trinocular vision. Each of their eyeballs can see three different images. Compare this to our eyes. Human eyes see single pictures that work together to create binocular vision. We can detect three colour wavelengths – red, green and blue. Mantis shrimp can detect twelve. With that said, they aren’t really good at seeing subtle variations in colour. Their optic ability’s function more like a satellite.

Tidbit of Awesomeness – These pretty little terrors start punching their prey nine to fifteen days after hatching. 

Your strength comes from deep within. There may be times when you feel tired or doubt yourself, but don’t be mistaken, that strength is always there and ready to be accessed when you need it. If you have ever doubted your own power, let go of that right now. You are fierce and can take on anything. You’ve got this.

When you’re ready to embrace this strength, do so without any intentions to intimidate or control. Move forward with pride and grace. Don’t misdirect this inner strength you have. Use it for good. Be an inspiration. 

If you’re feeling physically weak, perhaps it’s time to join a gym, start walking or hiking, or engage in another form of physical fitness. Find an activity that leaves you feeling strong and capable.