Hendersons Hingebeak Shrimp

The Henderson's Hingebeak Shrimp (Cinetorhynchus hendersoni) is a tropical marine species notable for its striking appearance and ecological niche. This small shrimp can grow up to 3 cm (approximately 1.2 inches) in length and is found in the warm coastal waters at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters (about 3 to 98 feet). It is characterized by its distinctive wavy red body pattern and a rostrum with a red tip.

As a carnivorous creature, the shrimp plays a specific role in its underwater environment, likely feeding on small aquatic organisms. It belongs to the order Decapoda, which comprises species that are mostly gonochoric, meaning individuals are distinctly male or female. The mating process involves a fascinating precopulatory courtship ritual that relies on smell (olfactory cues) and touch (tactile cues), often leading to indirect sperm transfer.

This species is widely distributed across the Indo-Pacific region, with sightings reported in diverse locations including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Bunaken, 🇵🇫 French Polynesia, Hawaii (🇺🇸 United States), 🇮🇩 Indonesia, the Moluccas, 🇳🇨 New Caledonia (🇫🇷 Overseas France), 🇵🇦 Panama, the 🇵🇭 Philippines, the 🌊 Red Sea, Sulawesi, Tanzania, and Timor. Its broad range highlights its adaptability to various marine environments within its tropical habitat.