Critter of the Month
Harelequinn Shrimp
Harlequinn Shrimp
photos courtesy Sandi Strickland
These colorful little shrimp are not a common sighting here in Hawaii, but a terrific treat when you do! They are especially beautiful with white bodies dotted with bright blue, red or orange spots. Usually found in pairs and generally very territorial - staying in the same lair for several months at a time. They usually hide deep within the branches of corals.
They are unique from other shrimp as they feed mainly on sea stars. They will spring upon a sea star, and together attempt to flip the sea star over. Then they drag the shrimp back to its lair. They will feed on the sea star over the next several days, usually devouring it alive. The Crown of Thorns is also on its menu, a sea star known for being a reef killer.