Description

Also known as Praying Mantis, Praying Mantis Shrimp, Spearing Mantis Shrimp.

Found around rubble and sandy areas, with several burrows to hide in, over very shallow, coral and rocky reefs. Males brighter than females, juveniles yellow.
They feed on fish and invertebrates.
Length - 9cm
Depth - 1-5m
Widespread Indo-Pacific

Mantis Shrimps have excellent eye sight with large eyes mounted on stalks these can swivel to give almost 360' vision.
Spearing mantis shrimps are usually found in their holes with just their heads showing, waiting for their prey.
Smashing mantis shrimps are found during the day scurrying around the reef hunting their prey, but disappearing into their holes when approached.
They can often be seen with their heads raised like a 'praying mantis', they also raise their tail as a warning.
Their large claws are used for smashing or spearing their prey.
Mantis Shrimps have been known to attack and wound divers who approach to close. (edit) Ref: https://www.sealifebase.ca/summary/Raoulserenea-oxyrhyncha.html