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Snapping Shrimp

Facts

  • Known for their incredibly loud snapping sound that producing sounds up to 218 decibels.
  • Their snap is louder than a gunshot and is one of the loudest sounds produced by any marine animal.
  • The snap creates a cavitation bubble and they use it to stun prey.
  • Have a symbiotic relationship with goby fish.

Where do they live?

Tropical and temperate waters worldwide

What do they eat?

Small fish, crustaceans, detritus

Species Endangered Level

Not Endangered
Threatened
Vulnerable
Endangered
Critically Endangered
Least Endangered
Most Endangered

Learn More!

The snapping shrimp, also known as pistol shrimp, is a small yet remarkable marine creature found in tropical and temperate waters around the world. Belonging to the family Alpheidae, these shrimp are distinguished by their asymmetrical claws, with one claw being significantly larger than the other. This larger claw is not used for typical claw functions but is instead a specialized tool for creating a loud snapping sound. When the claw snaps shut, it generates a cavitation bubble that collapses with an explosive noise reaching up to 218 decibels, louder than a gunshot. This sound is not only used for communication but also for hunting, as the shockwave can stun or even kill small prey.

In addition to their fascinating hunting technique, snapping shrimp exhibit interesting social behaviors. Many species live in burrows, which they either dig themselves or share with other marine animals like goby fish. In these symbiotic relationships, the shrimp provides shelter by maintaining the burrow, while the goby fish acts as a lookout for predators, benefiting both parties. Snapping shrimp are a testament to the wonders of marine life, showcasing how even the smallest creatures can have a significant impact on their environment through unique adaptations and behaviors.

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Where does the snapping shrimp live?

The correct answer is In coral reefs!

That's correct! Way to go  🦅

What is the snapping shrimp’s nickname?

The correct answer is Pistol Shrimp!

That's correct! Way to go  🦅

How does the snapping shrimp make its snapping sound?

The correct answer is With its large claw!

That's correct! Way to go  🦅

What makes the snapping shrimp famous?

The correct answer is It has a very loud snap!

That's correct! Way to go  🦅

Where does the snapping shrimp live?

The correct answer is In coral reefs!

That's correct! Way to go  🦅

What makes the snapping shrimp famous?

The correct answer is It has a very loud snap!

That's correct! Way to go  🦅

How does the snapping shrimp make its snapping sound?

The correct answer is With its large claw!

That's correct! Way to go  🦅

What is the snapping shrimp’s nickname?

The correct answer is Pistol Shrimp!

That's correct! Way to go  🦅

Why is the Snapping Shrimp also called a Pistol Shrimp?

The correct answer is Because its snap sounds like a gunshot!

That's correct! Way to go  🦅

How loud can a Snapping Shrimp's snap be?

The correct answer is As loud as a firecracker!

That's correct! Way to go  🦅

What is special about the Snapping Shrimp's claw?

The correct answer is It can snap so fast it creates bubbles!

That's correct! Way to go  🦅

How does a Snapping Shrimp catch its prey?

The correct answer is With a loud snap of its claw!

That's correct! Way to go  🦅

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Crustaceans