Mantis Shrimp Can See 16 Types of Color Receptors — Humans Have Only 3

Humans see the world through three types of color receptors (cones) — sensitive to red, green, and blue light. This seems impressive until you meet the mantis shrimp. Mantis shrimp have 16 different types of color photoreceptors, including sensitivity to ultraviolet light invisible to humans.

Paradoxically, researchers have found that mantis shrimp may not actually 'see' more colors than humans in the traditional sense — instead, they process color information differently, potentially recognizing colors rather than comparing them. They also have exceptional depth perception and can see in multiple directions simultaneously. Their punch — delivered at 50 mph — is powerful enough to crack aquarium glass.