No matter how much we may love wildlife, the natural world is undeniably violent.
The sharp teeth and claws of carnivores are made to tear through flesh.
Venomous fangs unleash deadly, paralyzing toxins.
But when we think of dangerous projectiles, we probably think of human conflict.
Humans are the only animals in the world with the ability to throw an object and kill a target.
Projectile use by organisms other than humans is rare - however, it is not unheard of.
Because battle for survival is indeed a battle, nature is endlessly inventive, and some species have evolved their own version of ballistics.
Beetles can let out a barrage of toxic chemicals, certain fish can shoot prey out of the air with 100% accuracy, and even mushrooms can send their spores flying at speeds unrivaled in the natural world.
There are in fact hundreds of creatures who have projectiles in their arsenal, whether it's for hunting, self-defense, and even procreation.
And these organisms have been sources of wonder, fascination, and confusion for scientists for centuries.
