A leafcutter ant (Atta cephalotes) using its metal-laced mandibles to cut through a leaf
© Alamy / Getty / NASA
Tiny arthropods such as ants, spiders and scorpions routinely bite, sting or otherwise pierce tough material like wood and skin. Recent research has shed light on what gives one group of leafcutter ants (Atta cephalotes) their biting edge. Using powerful microscopes, scientists have discovered a web of zinc atoms woven into the biological structure of the ants’ jaws, lending them the durability of stainless-steel knives. This smooth distribution of zinc allows the edge of the ants’ teeth to form a fine point, and keeps them sharp for a long time.