Ancylocaris
Ancylocaris is a genus of shrimp in the family Palaemonidae. It is monotypic, meaning it contains only a single species, Ancylocaris brevicarpalis, also known as the “whip coral shrimp”. These shrimps are small, reaching a maximum length of about 3 cm. They are distinguished by their distinctive “whip-like” antennae, which are much longer than the body, and their striking color patterns.
Common Names
Ancylocaris brevicarpalis is commonly known as the "whip coral shrimp". This name is derived from its long, whip-like antennae and its preference for living in coral reefs.
Characteristics
Ancylocaris brevicarpalis has several distinctive characteristics:
- Whip-like antennae: The most prominent feature of this shrimp is its extremely long antennae, which can be up to three times the length of its body. These antennae are used for sensory purposes and for communication.
- Striking color patterns: The body of Ancylocaris brevicarpalis is adorned with vivid colors, typically a combination of red, orange, and white. These colors vary slightly depending on the individual and its location.
- Small size: Ancylocaris brevicarpalis is a small shrimp, reaching a maximum size of about 3 cm. This makes it difficult to spot in the wild, especially against the colorful backdrop of coral reefs.
Environments
Ancylocaris brevicarpalis is found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. It prefers to inhabit coral reefs, where it can be found among the branches of corals and other invertebrates. This shrimp is a commensal symbiont, meaning it benefits from its association with its host organism, but does not harm it. It typically resides in the vicinity of certain coral species, where it finds protection and a source of food.
References
For more information on Ancylocaris, you can refer to the following sources: