Great escape: ant uses spring-loaded jaws to jump away from predators

Trap-jaw ants are known as fast biters, but researchers have proved that their astonishing leaps, propelled by 140mph muscle movements, are an escape tactic

They have the fastest bite in the animal kingdom, but the trap-jaw ants' explosive mandibles also serve a less violent purpose, according to scientists. The insects regularly use their spring-loaded jaws to perform "escape jumps" when face-to-face with a predator.

The ant's jaws open to 180 degrees before snapping shut at more than 60 metres per second (140 miles per hour). The whole action takes place 2,300 times faster than the blink of an eye.