Secret of super-tough scales of giant Amazonian fish uncovered
By 
Patrick Hughes2019-10-16T15:00:00
Spiral-staircase structure prevents the scales being penetrated by piranhas
The scales of Arapaima gigas – one of the largest freshwater fish on Earth – have been revealed to be one of the toughest flexible materials found in nature. The discovery by a team of researchers based in California point to a way of improving lightweight armour. However, shortcomings in 3D printing means that scaly bulletproof vests may be a while off yet.