Daily Devotional – May 2

Biology

What is faster than a speeding bullet, can break aquarium glass with a single punch, and draw blood from a human finger? A five-inch peacock mantis shrimp.

In the wild, peacock mantis shrimp eat foods such as clams, snails, and crabs - all of which have tough shells. With one swift knock-out punch, reaching the speed of a 22-caliber bullet, the shrimp shatters these shells and has a tasty lunch. How did the peacock mantis shrimp’s “club” become so powerful that it can even shatter aquarium glass? It’s all in the design.

The “club” has three layers. The outer layer is rich with minerals; the middle layer is composed of chitin with minerals dispersed within it; the inner layer has chitin fibers oriented in the opposite direction. The “club” is lightweight, stiff, tough, shock-resistant, and impact-tolerant. Today, researchers are studying the peacock mantis shrimp’s “club” in an effort to develop better body armor for soldiers. These scientists recognize a good “knock-out punch” when they see it! Let’s hope they also recognize the designer, Jesus Christ.

For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord,...

~ Habakkuk 2:14

Source: "Pearls in Paradise" by authors Bruce Malone and Jule Von Vett

References for this devotional.