Heavy metal proteins are the secret weapon in ant bites
Protein-rich biomaterials containing zinc, manganese, copper and bromine allow ants, crabs and scorpions to pack more punch for their size
Ants, scorpions and crabs are able to deliver powerful bites and stings thanks to the arrangement of heavy metal and halogen atoms on their teeth, claws and stingers, researchers have found.
While larger animals use mineralised impact tools – such as antlers or teeth – smaller creatures need to deliver more power relative to their size so they use heavy element biomaterials (HEBs) to cut. These are protein-rich structures containing inorganic components made from zinc, manganese, bromine or copper. Although mineralised tools are stronger, HEBs have better abrasion resistance, allowing the animal’s tools to remain sharper for longer.