Peacock Mantis Shrimp
| Scientific name | Odontodactylus scyllarus |
|---|---|
| Descriptor | Linnaeus |
| Year of description | 1758 |
| IUCN category (World) | NE |
| Family | Odontodactylae |
| Genus | Odontodactylus |
Introduction
Odontodactylus scyllarus, commonly known as Peacock Mantis Shrimp, is a salt water crustacea.
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Who is it?
Morphology
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Average size10 cm
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Maximum size18 cm
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Average size10 cm
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Maximum size18 cm
How to recognize this crustacea ?
The Peacock Mantis Shrimp measures between 10 and 18 cm.
Of elongated form, like all the shrimps, it has 5 pairs of legs and a segmented carapace at the level of the abdomen which ends in a tail in fan cut for swimming.
This species belongs to the "long arm shrimp" group because its second pair of claws is of imposing size. These appendages are used mainly to defend themselves, but also to catch food.
Behaviour & Life cycle
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Sociabilityliving as a couple or alone
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territorialNo
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VenomousNo
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Way of livingdiurnal
Like all crustaceans, The Peacock Mantis Shrimp molts whenever it becomes cramped in its shell. Before the hardening of its new body, it is more vulnerable and spends a good part of its time hidden. This mechanism, very complex, allows the periodic renewal of the exoskeleton and part of the internal skeleton. It is also during the moult that the females become fertile.
The Peacock Mantis Shrimp is a crustacea living as a couple or alone. This species is carnivorous .
Although the Peacock Mantis Shrimp is non-territorial, it is sometimes aggressive towards other species. In a constant quest for dominance, the dominant males of this species cannot stand each other. The battle between two individuals can be intense and violent. It will result in the submission and sometimes even death of one of the protagonists.
The Peacock Mantis Shrimpis not a very good swimmer, especially when it reaches adulthood. It moves mainly with the help of its legs.
The Peacock Mantis Shrimp has a tendency to dig the ground and bury itself in caves to take refuge.
Reproduction
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Migratory speciesYes
Harmless species
This species does not represent any particular threats to humans when encountered in its natural environment.
Origin and distribution
Conservation status of populations (IUCN)
Where to see this species?
What is its habitat?
Natural environment characteristics
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Temperature24 - 29 °C
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Depth0 - 0 m
Biotope presentation
To go further
To read on the web
Sources & Contributions
Participation & Validation
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Translation
Translation done with the valuable contribution of our translators, who make this information available to a wider audience. We sincerely thank them for their commitment.
Benoit Chartrer
Where to see this species?
Scientific partners
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