Baltic Prawn – Palaemon adspersus

, Baltic Prawn, Palaemon adspersus
Depth: 0 - 10 m

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The Baltic Prawn, scientifically known as Palaemon adspersus, is a species of freshwater shrimp that thrives in diverse aquatic environments. This fascinating crustacean is a popular choice for aquarists, contributing to the vibrant beauty of home aquariums.

Description & Characteristics

The Palaemon adspersus is a small to medium-sized prawn, typically reaching a maximum length of around 6 cm. Its body is translucent with a greenish-brown hue, allowing it to blend seamlessly into its surroundings. The characteristic feature of the Palaemon adspersus is its long, slender rostrum (beak-like projection) extending from the head. The rostrum has a series of teeth along its upper and lower edges. This intricate design enhances the prawn’s ability to catch prey and defend itself.

Habitat and Occurrence

The Palaemon adspersus is a versatile species that thrives in a variety of aquatic habitats. Primarily found in brackish water environments, they are frequently encountered in estuaries, lagoons, and coastal areas where freshwater and saltwater meet. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in a depth range of 0.5 to 10 meters, making them a common sight in both shallow and deeper waters. The Palaemon adspersus is most commonly found in the coastal waters of the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, extending its range into the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea. This wide geographical distribution reflects their ability to acclimate to diverse conditions. The Palaemon adspersus, being a euryhaline species, can tolerate varying levels of salinity, further enhancing their adaptability.

Taxonomy

The Palaemon adspersus belongs to the Class: Malacostraca, which encompasses a vast array of crustaceans. Within this class, the Palaemon adspersus is further classified as belonging to the Order: Decapoda, a group characterized by their ten walking legs. Finally, the Palaemon adspersus falls under the Family: Palaemonidae, a family of freshwater and brackish-water shrimps known for their slender bodies and long rostrums.

Feeding

The Palaemon adsppersus is an omnivorous feeder, consuming a diverse diet consisting of detritus, algae, and small invertebrates. In aquarium settings, they readily accept a variety of food items, including flakes, frozen food (small sorts), and mysis. Their opportunistic feeding strategy makes them valuable members of their ecosystem, contributing to the balance and health of their aquatic habitats.

Associated Species

Image References

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