Skeleton Shrimp (Caprella spp.)

Description: Sometimes referred to as the “praying mantises of the sea” due to their appearance. Their bodies are cylindrical and long, growing up to 4 cm in length. They have two pair of legs attached to the front of their bodies used for defense and capturing food. For their rear, they have three pairs of legs, used to grasp and hold on to surfaces. Skelton shrimp color ranges from a light brown to a light red, which helps them camouflage. 

Habitat: This genus lives in intertidal zones ranging from Oregon to California. 

Diet: Skeleton shrimp feed mainly on diatoms, detritus, amphipods, and filtered food particles. They use their antennae to help with filter feeding.

Tide Pool Tidbits:

• Some skeleton shrimp species can change their color to blend into their surroundings. 

• When skeleton shrimp grow, they shed their old exoskeletons and form new ones. 

• Female skeleton shrimp sometimes kill the male after mating - another reason to call them the praying mantises of the sea.

Reference: Monterey Bay Aquarium