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Story summary
- A Science Advances study of 143 puncture tools from 133 species linked shape to function.
- Pointier shapes like shark teeth puncture but buckle while rounder shapes like walrus tusks resist breakage but puncture less.
- The study named elite tools that combine sturdiness, such as scorpion stingers, dracula ant mandibles, and mantis-shrimp appendages.
- Authors cited convergent evolution, noting backward-facing barbs on jumping cholla cactus spines, porcupine quills, and snail love darts.
