Arthropoda
Neogonodactylus curacaoensis
(Dark Mantis Shrimp)
1. Out of water (Pam Heckel)
2. Out of water (Pam Heckel)
3. Out of water (Pam Heckel)
4. Out of water (Pam Heckel)
Size
Length: 4-6cm (2-3")
Recognition Characters
This mantis shrimp is a member of the gonodactylid family and possess club shaped appendages rather than foreclaws. Eyes are large and stalked.
Color
Body and tips of scales and tail outlined with beautiful iridescent aquamarine, violet, and emerald colorings.
Habitat & Depth
Associated with rocky bottoms and corals. Inhabit cracks and recesses within reef.
Distribution at GRNMS
Occasional.
Geographic Range
Reported from Caribbean. Our specimen may be furthest incidence of species in its North range
Behavior & Notes
Animals are shy. Usually remain in protected recesses within reef. Our specimen was captured inside a pvc fish trap. Uses club to smash smaller invertebrates.
Synonyms
Humann 1992a, Ruppert and Fox 1988, Williams 1984