Pistol Shrimp - Guide On The Interesting Pistol Shrimp
Date: Sunday November 29, 2009Posted in: Family
There are as much as 500 hundred kinds of pistol shrimp documented thus far but only a small amount that reach the saltwater aquarium hobby with any reliability. They are also notorious as hitchhikers that come in through live rock. The pistol shrimp is a somewhat small shrimp with most ranging from one to three inches.
Pistol shrimp have a large claw that, when snapped shut, can cause the creation of a cavitation bubble. This bubble, very briefly reaches temperatures approaching that of the sun, in the region of 4700 degrees Celsius. The famed popping sound that is created by means of this motion is also heard.
The cavitation bubble is used offensively and defensively. While they can prey on a assortment of creatures, they are better known for their ability to scavenge well in captivity. They are a burrowing species, tunneling through the sand and even beneath the rock scape. This poses a danger to your saltwater tank. Damage to the aquarium may perhaps be inflicted if the rock that is being tunneled underneath is not properly fixed in place. Even with this, they are still a effective addition for their sand cleaning abilities.
Saltwater sponges have been renowned to be associated via some forms of pistol shrimp. More surprisingly, these shrimp have been renowned to develop symbiotic relationships with a few members of the goby family. This is normally seen in pistol shrimps belonging to the genus Alpheus such as the tiger pistol shrimp and Randall’s pistol shrimp.
Both parties profit from the relationship. Pistol shrimp in nature have incredibly bad eyesight and rely on the goby to warn it when risk approaches. It does this via keeping in continual physical contact with the goby by resting its antennae on the goby’s tail and body. Any rapid movements from the goby is interpreted as a sign of danger and is a signal for the pistol shrimp to return to its tunnel. In return, the pistol shrimp provides a safe tunnel for the goby. Ever vigilant, the goby will generally be seen on the look out while the pistol shrimp goes about its business digging and scavenging for food until it receives a warning from the goby. Plankton that is transported via their burrows turn into food for the goby.
Sexy Shrimp Information in addition to the Harlequin Shrimp Information are equally featured in the authors respective hubpages. For further information on these fascinating shrimp, kindly drop by.
