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 which are a form of powerful claws used for defense and capturing food. For their rear, they have three pairs of legs, used to grasp and hold on to surfaces. Skelton shrimps color ranged from a light brown to a light red, which help them camouflage. 

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

Diet: Skeleton shrimp feed mainly on diatoms, detritus, amphipods, and filtered food particles.

Tide Pool Tidbits:

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

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

• Female skeleton shrimp sometimes kill the male after mating.

References: Washington State Department of Ecology