Anachlorocurtis Occidentalis

Anachlorocurtis occidentalis is a species of shrimp first discovered in 2014 in the northeastern 🌊 Red Sea, particularly in the Gulf of Aqaba. It is a close relative of Anachlorocurtis commensalis, and the two are the only known members of their genus. This species is notably slender in both body and limbs compared to its relative. Its carapace is adorned with three large and one small subtriangular lobes along the middle top line, and its third abdominal segment has a flattened top profile. Additionally, the sixth segment of its abdomen is twice as long as the fifth.

Known for its unique morphology, the shrimp's walking legs (ambulatory pereiopods) feature a single small spine at the rear, while its tail segment (telson) typically has 3 to 5 pairs of spines along the sides. Anachlorocurtis occidentalis resides at depths between 4 and 55 meters (13 to 180 feet). Measuring approximately 7 millimeters (0.28 inches) in length, this shrimp is typically found on black corals, such as Antipathes species, which grow on reef walls and shipwrecks.

The species has a commensal relationship with these corals, meaning it relies on them for habitat and protection without harming them. It has evolved a cryptic coloration that blends with its antipatharian host, providing effective camouflage against predators.