Saturday 11 August 2007

Odontomachus: The Trap Jaw Ant

This a Scientific mini documentary made by researchers at Berkeley that show the ant using its mandibles to propel itself in the air.

These trap-jaw ants, species in Odontomachus have a pair large, straight mandibles capable of opening 180 degrees. These jaws are locked in place, and can snap shut on prey or objects when trigger hairs on the jaw are touched. The mandibles are powerful and fast, giving the ant its common name. The mandibles either kill or maim the prey, allowing the ant to bring it back to the nest. The Odontomachus can simply lock and snap its jaws again if one bite is not enough, or to cut off bits of larger food. Odontomachus can use its jaws without locking them, for other targets. Consult the Wiki for more.
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