Unchanged Through Time: Mantis Shrimp

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The discussion centers around the concept of "living fossils," specifically highlighting the mantis shrimp, which has remained largely unchanged for millions of years despite the extinction of its relatives. The mantis shrimp is described as visually stunning yet deadly, with a unique ability to see in circularly polarized light. The conversation humorously diverges into a comparison with Keith Richards, joking about his longevity and the debate over his vitality. There are also mentions of other ancient species, such as the bowfin, and a reference to a rat thought extinct in the Mekong Delta. Overall, the thread blends scientific facts about ancient species with light-hearted commentary.
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It looks half butterfly half crab, lovely colours.
 
mantis shrimp are satan's angels. beautiful to behold, but deadly. fortunately, they are no match for an octopus if you get one of these demons in your aquarium.
 
Are you sure that's not at least a second or third cousing of yours? Please don't hurt me.
 
Oh ... this thread isn't about Keith Richards.
 
George Jones said:
Oh ... this thread isn't about Keith Richards.

LIVING fossils. Richards appears to be living, but that point is hotly disputed.
 
Ivan Seeking said:
LIVING fossils. Richards appears to be living, but that point is hotly disputed.

Certain factions believe that once his animatory functions cease operating that he should be dried and smoked. For science, of course.
 
I agree with Woolly's assessment (crab & butterfly). And stunningly colourful!
(interesting they are the only creature we know of, that can see in circularly polarized light).
 
i saw a http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bowfin" , once, while wading in a creek near huntsville, al. i don't know how accurate the description of temperament is, but i was able to wade fairly close without spooking it. it wouldn't strike at my popping bug, so i only got to observe it swimming.
 
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12 M year old rat thought extinct - among others - in Mekong Delta.

(Please note: not the cover picture. That would be a frog in case you are confused.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grNhCfy6azw
 

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