Take-off strategy of flea beetles (Asiophrida xanthospilota is shown in the photos at the top of the figure). Acceleration data were calculated based on three typical jumps recorded by a high-speed camera. The three different species were chosen to represent flea beetles with different sizes A Phase I (Crunching): tibial flexor muscles contract, causing flexion of the tibia B Phase II (Co-contraction): tibial extensor muscles and tibial flexor muscles contract simultaneously, catching the triangular plate and hindering the extension of the tibia C Phase III (Triggering and Acceleration), the triangular plate is dislodged, causing the explosive release of energy D Phase IV (Relaxation), the flea beetle is catapulted into the air and the muscles begin to relax.