Spiky & Armoured: 10 Fascinating Animals With Natural Shells And Thorns

Armadillo (Dasypodidae family)Armadillos possess a hard bony shell made of keratin and bone. Their armour acts as a defence mechanism, and some species can roll into a ball when threatened.Porcupine (Erethizontidae family)Porcupines have sharp quills made of keratin which detach easily when predators attack. These hollow, barbed spines serve as an effective defence, causing pain and discouraging further threats.Thorny Devil (Moloch horridus)This Australian lizard is covered in thorn-like scales that help deter predators. It also collects moisture through its skin, channelling water to its mouth via capillary action.Pangolin (Pholidota order)Pangolins are the only mammals with protective keratin scales covering their bodies. When threatened, they curl into a tight ball, shielding their soft parts from predators completely.Sea Urchin (Echinoidea class)Sea urchins have spiny shells called tests, which protect them from predators. Their movable spines also help in locomotion and burrowing into seabeds or rock crevices.Hedgehog (Erinaceinae subfamily)Hedgehogs are small mammals covered in thousands of stiff spines. When in danger, they curl into a ball, using their quills to form a spiky barrier against predators.Spiny Orb-Weaver Spider (Gasteracantha genus)These spiders have hardened, spiny abdomens resembling tiny armoured shields. The bright colours and spikes deter predators, making them less likely to be consumed by birds or reptiles.Horseshoe Crab (Limulidae family)Despite their name, horseshoe crabs are more closely related to spiders. Their hard, dome-shaped carapace and spiky tail help protect them and aid in flipping if overturned.Crown-of-Thorns Starfish (Acanthaster planci)This coral-eating starfish is covered in venomous spines. The thorny appearance serves both as defence and camouflage, making it difficult for predators to consume them safely.Spiny Turtle (Heosemys spinosa)Native to Southeast Asia, the spiny turtle’s shell features sharp, pointed edges. This spiky carapace provides extra protection in forest environments and aids in camouflage among leaf litter.10 Fascinating Animals You’ll Only Find In The NilgirisRead More