between the two halves of the shell: the interconnections are zipper-like providing additional strength and are stiff and resist bending pressure. The back of the beetle is not interlocked in the same way allowing the bottom halves to slide past each other, providing flexibility to absorb squishing compression. The second area is the puzzle-like design that runs the length of the back connecting the left and right side. Protrusions called blades fit together like jigsaw pieces, glued together by proteins aiding in damage resistance. The connection allows the blades to absorb impacts without snapping. The protection allows the beetle to be almost predator proof, denying most species the ability to break the shell. References External links Zopheridae Beetles described in 1851