Harlequin Shrimp

Harlequin Shrimp

Hymenocera picta

Not Evaluated
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DESCRIPTION

The Harlequin Shrimp (Hymenocera picta) is a vibrantly colored marine crustacean found in the Indo-Pacific's coral reefs. It is renowned for its striking patterns of white with pink, orange, or purple spots. This species is a highly specialized predator, feeding exclusively on starfish, which it often flips over to consume their tube feet and soft tissues. Harlequin shrimp typically live in monogamous pairs and can be found in sheltered areas such as rock crevices and caves within the reef system.

Max Length 5 cm
Max Weight 5 g
Lifespan Up to 7 years
Habitat Underwater cave, coastal zone, and coral reef
Depth Range 1 - 30 m
Diet Specialized
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior In pairs
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Harlequin Shrimp

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Harlequin Shrimp

Range

Where Harlequin Shrimp has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Harlequin Shrimp

Where can you see the Harlequin Shrimp?

The Harlequin Shrimp can be seen at 14 dive destinations in 7 countries. The best spots include Anilao (Philippines), Richelieu Rock (Thailand), Gili Islands (Indonesia), Hurghada (Egypt), and Koh Lipe (Thailand).

What is the best time to see the Harlequin Shrimp?

Sightings of the Harlequin Shrimp peak at different times depending on the destination: Anilao from March to October, Komodo from March to October, and Lembeh Strait from March to October.

Where can you see the Harlequin Shrimp in Philippines?

In Philippines, you can see the Harlequin Shrimp at Anilao, Malapascua, and Tubbataha Reefs.

Where can you see the Harlequin Shrimp in Thailand?

In Thailand, you can see the Harlequin Shrimp at Richelieu Rock, Koh Lipe, and Similan Islands.

Where can you see the Harlequin Shrimp in Indonesia?

In Indonesia, you can see the Harlequin Shrimp at Gili Islands, Komodo, Lembeh Strait, and Raja Ampat.

How big does the Harlequin Shrimp get?

The Harlequin Shrimp can reach up to 5 cm in length and 5 g in weight.

What habitat does the Harlequin Shrimp live in?

The Harlequin Shrimp is found in these habitats: underwater cave, coastal zone, and coral reef.

How deep does the Harlequin Shrimp live?

The Harlequin Shrimp lives between 1 and 30 m deep.

What does the Harlequin Shrimp eat?

Depends on a narrow, particular diet, often a single prey type or family, which binds it closely to one habitat.

When is the Harlequin Shrimp most active?

Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.

How long does the Harlequin Shrimp live?

The Harlequin Shrimp lives up to 7 years.

What is the conservation status of the Harlequin Shrimp?

The Harlequin Shrimp is listed as Not Evaluated on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Harlequin Shrimp. Spotted something that looks off?

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