Hippolyte
Hippolyte is a genus of caridean shrimp belonging to the family Hippolytidae. They are commonly known as “cleaner shrimp” due to their symbiotic relationship with larger fish, removing parasites and dead tissue from their skin and gills.
Characteristics
Hippolyte species are typically small, reaching lengths of 1 to 3 inches. They exhibit a slender, elongated body with long, delicate antennae. Their coloration varies depending on the species and environment, often blending in with their surroundings. Their most distinctive feature is the presence of a pair of "cleaning appendages" located on their second pair of maxillipeds, which they use to pick parasites and debris from fish.
Environment
Hippolyte shrimp are found in a variety of marine environments, including coral reefs, rocky shores, and seagrass meadows. They are often associated with specific fish species and are known to be quite selective in their cleaning behavior. They prefer to live in shallow, well-lit areas where they can easily find their clients.
Diet
While their primary food source is the parasites and dead tissue they remove from fish, Hippolyte shrimp also supplement their diet with algae, plankton, and small invertebrates. They have a symbiotic relationship with their fish clients, receiving food and protection in exchange for their cleaning services.
Reproduction
Hippolyte shrimp are generally hermaphroditic, meaning they can function as both male and female. They release eggs into the water column, where they are fertilized and develop into larvae. Larval development can take several weeks before they settle into their adult form.
Species
The genus Hippolyte comprises numerous species, with some of the most well-known examples including:
- Hippolyte californiensis
- Hippolyte curacaoensis
- Hippolyte gibberosa
- Hippolyte littoralis
- Hippolyte zostericola
References
For further information on the genus Hippolyte, you can refer to the following sources: