Purple-blotched Smasher (Odontodactylus latirostris)

Also known as Pink-eared Mantis Shrimp, Pinktail Mantis Shrimp, Poorman Peacock Mantis Shrimp, Purpletail Mantis Shrimp, Rubble Mantis, Rubble Mantis Shrimp, Smashing Mantis Shrimp

Description

Also known as Pink-eared Mantis Shrimp, Pinktail Mantis Shrimp, Poorman Peacock Mantis Shrimp, Purpletail Mantis Shrimp, Rubble Mantis, Rubble Mantis Shrimp, Smashing Mantis Shrimp.

Found singly or in pairs, living in existing burrows, over shallow to deep rocky bottoms, of reef flats and coral reefs.
They feed on crabs, fish, and worms.
Length - 18cm
Depth - 1-30m
Widespread Indo-West 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. Ref: x

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