---
title: Egyptian prawn (Metapenaeopsis aegyptia)
scientific_name: Metapenaeopsis aegyptia
common_name: Egyptian prawn
taxon: Shrimps

published: 2024-11-30T20:16:22.668Z
updated: 2025-11-25T13:58:09.000Z
tags: Egyptian prawn, Metapenaeopsis aegyptia, Shrimps, Red Sea, Marine Life, Diving
url: https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/invertebrate/crustaceans/shrimps/egyptian-prawn
---

# Egyptian prawn (*Metapenaeopsis aegyptia*)

**Taxon:** Shrimps (*Caridea*)  


The Egyptian prawn, known scientifically as *Metapenaeopsis aegyptia* and commonly referred to as the Erythrean Tiger Shrimp, is a tropical, benthic species found at depths ranging from 13 to 62 meters (about 43 to 203 feet). This striking crustacean can grow up to 8 centimeters (around 3 inches) in length and is characterized by its red coloration with distinctive white mottling and a serrated rostrum.

As a member of the order Decapoda, the Egyptian prawn is primarily gonochoric, meaning individuals are distinctly male or female. Mating often involves a precopulatory courtship ritual, where individuals use smell and touch to communicate, usually resulting in indirect sperm transfer.

The natural habitat of the Egyptian prawn includes regions in the Eastern Mediterranean as well as the Indo-West Pacific, highlighting its broad geographical range.

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*Source: [Red Sea Creatures](https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/invertebrate/crustaceans/shrimps/egyptian-prawn)*
*Updated: November 25, 2025*