Mantis Shrimp
Western Atlantic Mantis Shrimp
Thumb Splitters, Prawn Killers
Squilla empusa

Description:

The mantis shrimp’s body appears a mix between a small lobster and a shrimp. Flat and elongate segmented body connected to a flat head that ends with long and thin yellow eyes. The segmented body ends with a wide flattened tail. The mantis shrimp has long spiney claws similar to that of a praying mantis. The shrimp may appear pale blue or gray in color, but colors can range from grayish-blue to tan, and the carapace may appear slightly translucent. The shrimp’s antennae extends past its eye stalks.

Average Maximum Size:

25.5 cm (10 in)

Adults Distinguishing Characteristics:

Juveniles Distinguishing Characteristics:

Range:

Massachussetts to Brazil

Habitat:

Found in shallow coastal waters with soft muddy bottoms. Typically bottom dwellers.

Notes:

Regulated Species:

No

Regulations Website:

Species: Squilla empusa
Family: Squillidae
Family Description: Mantis Shrimp
Mouth Type: NA
Tail Type: NA
Dorsal Type: NA

Similar Species

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