Purple-blotched Smasher

Scientific Name: Odontodactylus latirostris
Species: Mantis Shrimps (Odontodactylidae)
Other names: Smashing Mantis Shrimps, Rubble Mantis, Rubble Mantis Shrimp, Purple-tail Mantis Shrimp.

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Description

Also known as Smashing Mantis Shrimps, Rubble Mantis, Rubble Mantis Shrimp and Purple-tail Mantis Shrimp.

Found on sand and rubble areas, with several burrows to hide in.
Males brighter than females.
They feed on fish, squid and invertebrates.
Length - 8cm
Depth - 1-30m
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.

Spotted

The Purple-blotched Smasher is found in or near the Indo-Pacific region(s) and has been photographed 6 times by user @fishx6

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