Last year, Purdue and University of California, Irvine, researchers used state-of-the-art microscopy and other advanced and experimental computational techniques to determine why these beetle species are so tough. Their hope is this knowledge will enable the development of super strong materials. The journal Nature published their findings. The scientists found that the elytra, which protect the back half of the beetle, come together at a suture along the abdomen and fit together like a jigsaw puzzle, allowing the layers to flex and distribute force evenly throughout the body. Read More