Mantis shrimp
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Mantis shrimp
Mantis shrimp (Odontodactylus scyllarus) crawling on the seabed. Despite its name this is neither a mantis or a shrimp, instead being a crustacean only distantly related to the true shrimps. It is an active predator, and uses its club-like front limbs to kill prey. It mainly feeds on crabs and molluscs, breaking open their shells with blows from these clubs. A mantis shrimp strike is one of the fastest animal movements in the world, with a force similar to that of a low-calibre bullet. The eyes of the mantis shrimp are the most complex in the world, containing as many as 16 different types of photoreceptor (compared to four in humans). Photographed in Lembeh Strait, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6469389
© GEORGETTE DOUWMA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Colourful Crustacean Indonesia Lembeh Strait Mantis Shrimp North Sulawesi Sea Bed Smasher
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the remarkable Mantis shrimp, known scientifically as Odontodactylus scyllarus, gracefully crawling on the vibrant seabed. Despite its name, this fascinating creature is neither a mantis nor a shrimp but rather a crustacean distantly related to true shrimps. Renowned for its active predatory nature, the Mantis shrimp employs its club-like front limbs with deadly precision when hunting prey. Its preferred diet consists of crabs and molluscs, which it skillfully breaks open using powerful blows from these clubs. In fact, the force generated by a mantis shrimp strike is comparable to that of a low-calibre bullet, making it one of the fastest animal movements ever recorded. What truly sets this species apart are its mesmerizing eyes - considered the most complex in existence. With an astonishing array of up to 16 different types of photoreceptors (compared to our mere four), these eyes grant the Mantis shrimp unparalleled visual acuity and perception underwater. Captured in Lembeh Strait located in North Sulawesi, Indonesia – renowned for its rich marine biodiversity – this photograph beautifully encapsulates both the colorful fauna and intriguing zoology found beneath our oceans' surface. It serves as a testament to the wonders of marine biology while highlighting the unique characteristics and behaviors exhibited by these incredible creatures.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
