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Project Noah Nature School
Odontomachus sp.
A large Trap Jaw Ant (the white pattern on the head and thorax are reflections, both are actually black). The mandibles are very thick and held wide open, horizontal to the head, while hunting. About 8 mm long. The peculiar head shape of the Odontomachus Trap Jaw Ant is due to the powerful muscles lodged in the head to manipulate the massive jaws. Trigger hairs activate the muscles and snap the mandibles shut (the fastest accelaration of any biological structure!).
Hacienda Carlota, Edzna, Campeche, Mexico.
Spotted on Feb 22, 2015
Submitted on Apr 4, 2015
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