Caridean Shrimp

The Caridean Shrimp, specifically Coralliocaris superba, is a fascinating small marine creature found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the 🌊 Red Sea to 🇵🇫 French Polynesia. It resides at depths between 1 to 28 meters (3.3 to 91.9 feet) and reaches a maximum size of about 1 centimeter (0.39 inches).

This species is part of the Coralliocaris genus, known for shrimp that live in close association with scleractinian corals. Coralliocaris superba is unique among its kind due to its distinctive appearance, characterized by a white body and eyestalks, contrasting with its golden-brown legs. Its tail fan is adorned with tiny yellow and black spots. A notable feature of this shrimp is its unusual speckled-brown coloration that extends to the front of its third abdominal segment, a trait that varies geographically.

Unlike some of its relatives, such as Coralliocaris graminea, which have large claws capable of making clicking sounds, Coralliocaris superba does not possess such specialized features. It is closely affiliated with Acropora coral species, forming an essential part of the coral ecosystem.

In terms of its diet, Coralliocaris superba is highly adaptable, consuming a variety of food sources. Its diet ranges from meat-eating and scavenging dead matter to commensal living and coral feeding. This versatile eater consumes coral polyps and spawn, detritus, insects, mucus, and tiny marine animals known as zooplankton.