Peacock mantis shrimp
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Peacock mantis shrimp
Peacock mantis shrimp (Odontodactylus scyllarus) crawling on the seabed. Despite its name this is neither a mantis or a shrimp, instead being a crustacean only distantly related to the true shrimps. It is an active predator, and uses its club-like front limbs to kill prey. It mainly feeds on crabs and molluscs, breaking open their shells with blows from these clubs. A mantis shrimp strike is one of the fastest animal movements in the world, with a force similar to that of a low-calibre bullet. The eyes of the mantis shrimp are the most complex in the world, containing as many as 16 different types of photoreceptor (compared to four in humans). Photographed in Tulamben, Bali, Indonesia
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6470197
© MATTHEW OLDFIELD/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Bali Colourful Crustacean Indonesia Mantis Shrimp Sea Bed Tulamben Peacock Mantis Shrimp Smasher
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the mesmerizing beauty and unique characteristics of a Peacock mantis shrimp, gracefully crawling on the seabed. Despite its name, this fascinating creature is not a mantis or a shrimp but rather a crustacean distantly related to true shrimps. Known as an active predator, it employs its club-like front limbs with astonishing force to swiftly eliminate prey. Its diet mainly consists of crabs and mollusks, which it skillfully breaks open by delivering powerful blows from these clubs. Considered one of the fastest animal movements in the world, a mantis shrimp strike possesses an incredible force comparable to that of a low-caliber bullet. However, what truly sets this species apart are its eyes – the most complex in existence. With up to 16 different types of photoreceptors (compared to our mere four), they enable the Peacock mantis shrimp to perceive colors and details beyond human comprehension. Photographed against the backdrop of Tulamben's enchanting underwater scenery in Bali, Indonesia, this image showcases nature's vibrant palette and diverse marine life. As we delve into zoology and marine biology through this single snapshot, we gain insight into the intricate biological wonders thriving beneath Earth's surface.
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