Palaemon litoreus, commonly known as the common shrimp or the brown shrimp, is a species of shrimp found throughout the coastal waters of the North Atlantic Ocean. This crustacean is an important component of marine ecosystems and is also a significant commercial species, harvested for human consumption.
Description & Characteristics
Palaemon litoreus is a relatively small shrimp, typically reaching a maximum size of around 8 centimeters in length. Its body is elongated and semi-transparent, with a distinctive brown coloration, often with darker markings along its carapace and abdomen. It has prominent rostrum, a long, pointed projection extending forward from its head, which is fringed with teeth. Palaemon litoreus is characterized by its well-developed claws, the largest of which is located on its second pair of legs. These claws are used for defense and for capturing prey.
Habitat and Occurrence
Palaemon litoreus is a common inhabitant of shallow coastal waters, typically found in estuaries, harbors, and rocky shores. It prefers areas with a mixture of sand, gravel, and seaweed. Its distribution is largely influenced by temperature and salinity, with optimal conditions found in waters with a temperature range of 5-20°C and a salinity of 15-35 ppt. This makes it a prevalent presence in the neritic zone, the shallow marine zone extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf, where it can be found at depths ranging from the intertidal zone to around 50 meters.
Taxonomy
Palaemon litoreus belongs to the Class: Malacostraca, Order: Decapoda, and Family: Palaemonidae. This family encompasses a wide variety of shrimp species, known for their diverse morphology and ecological adaptations. The classification reflects the evolutionary relationship of Palaemon litoreus to other decapod crustaceans and its specific adaptations for life in the marine environment.
Feeding
Palaemon litoreus is an opportunistic omnivore, feeding on a wide range of food items, including algae, detritus, small invertebrates, and fish larvae. Its diet is influenced by its habitat and the availability of food sources. This shrimp plays a significant role in the food web, both as a predator and as prey for larger fish and birds.
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