|Image: Luisa Mota via Flickr|
From the tropics and subtropics.
Trapjaw Ants (Odontomachus sp.) have the fastest moving predatory appendages of any animal.
You probably realise that the appendages in question are those huge mandibles. They can move at speeds up to 230 kilometres per hour (140 mph), snapping shut with incredible force to kill and maim prey.
When the shoe is on the other foot they can bite the ground to propel themselves backwards and escape predators. Interesting that their jaws are such fearsome weapons, they can be used as an ejector seat to run away!
More on Trapjaw Ants.