Data from: A new ultrafast movement enables escape at low temperature

Escape is a life critical defensive behaviour. One potential escape
strategy is using ultrafast movements to relocate quickly. These movements
do not rely solely on muscle activation and are beneficial for ectotherms
at low temperatures when muscle performance is constrained. However, the
functional significance of ultrafast motions is often assumed. Here, we
show with high-speed videos that Astraeus jewel beetles (Buprestidae)
rapidly open their elytra to flick themselves into the air and the
movement is of comparable speed to other known ultrafast movements. Our
calculations indicate that it is likely a power-amplified mechanism.
Behavioural trials and thermal imaging demonstrate that Astraeus beetles
can flick at > 15°C lower body temperatures than walking or flying,
suggesting that the behaviour could provide a significant survival
advantage at low ambient temperatures. Taken together, we reveal a novel
ultrafast movement and show its potential functional value in escape.