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What is Unique About the Peacock Mantis Shrimp?

The Odontodactylus scyllarus or more commonly known as the Peacock Mantis Shrimp is a brightly colored crustacean that is frequently found in the Indo-Pacific coral reef. But did you know that this magnificent creature has a rather unique feature?

Despite its small size, the peacock mantis shrimp packs the most powerful punch in the animal kingdom. In fact, if humans were as powerful as these amazing creatures, they could toss a baseball right into the Earth’s orbit.

What is a Peacock Mantis Shrimp? 

The water is filled with some of the most fearsome predators, both large and small. Large species like great white sharks, killer whales, and enormous squids are among the more popular ones. While there are some less visible predators, on the other hand, that have extraordinary adaptations that enable them to dominate their specific habitats.

The peacock mantis shrimp is one of the strongest invertebrates in the sea, with a maximum body size of only seven inches. The creature’s formidable claws make it a force to be reckoned with, serving as hunting weapons and predator defense. 

This rainbow-colored crustacean skitters around the ocean floor, bringing a burst of color to the otherwise gloomy environment. Bright colors like orange, green, red, and blue hues can be found on the animal’s slender, hard-shelled body.

The body of the peacock mantis shrimp is also adorned with numerous pairs of specialized appendages that help in its mobility and provide them with a source of incredible power. The shrimp’s lower half is made up of pairs of swimmerets that help it propel itself forward in the water, while its upper body is made up of many paired legs that allow it to walk across the seafloor. The claws on a peacock mantis shrimp are, without a doubt, the most distinctive pair of appendages. These tiny appendages pack in a lot of power.

The peacock mantis shrimp utilizes its powerful claws to pierce its prey’s hard shells and keep predators away. The shrimp’s incredible adaption makes them challenging to keep on display in aquariums since they are infamous for punching through the glass and eventually escaping from their enclosure. (Source: Pigeon Key)

What is the Peacock Mantis’ Other Superhuman Powers? 

In addition to its powerful punch, the crustacean has another eye-catching trait. Its eyes protrude from its skull and move independently. They can simultaneously perceive in two directions. They can also identify colors that are invisible to humans. It’s simple to be astonished by this animal’s excellent characteristics.

The crustacean spends a lot of time seeking crabs and mollusks to eat. When it spots anything tasty, it goes into full-on boxing mode. (Source: Pigeon Key)

Are Peacock Mantis Shrimp Actually Shrimp?

The Peacock Mantis Shrimp is not actually a shrimp but is rather shrimp-like in nature. They are nocturnal animals with distinctive eyes that function as photoreceptors. 

While these creatures are incredibly intriguing, and most aquarists feel that they are enjoyable to keep as pets, they are not meant to be cooped up in an aquarium. (Source: Chesapeakbay

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