This truly is one of the most stunning and beautiful Shrimps to be found in tropical waters. The body is of a pinksih-white or white color, splashed with large purple-edged pink spots, and sometimes reddish or light orangish toned looking spots. The claws are tapered and striped with purple bands as well. The eyes are on stalks, and the antennae are of a leaf shape because they are flattened.

This shrimp remains very small, only reaching an average length of one for specimens in the Indian Ocean region, and up to almost two inches from Pacific regions.

Characteristics

This is a very shy, mild tempered shrimp, as well as delicate and sensitive. It prefers hard rocky or coral substrates, rich with lots of hiding places. During daylight hours it keeps hidden and only goes out to feed at twilight hours, or complete darkness. It is almost always found in pairs with the female being the larger of the two.

Diet

The Harlequin Shrimp's diet consists solely of the tube feet of Echinoderms in the Starfish Family. We know that when you find a Harlequin Shrimp, the small Linkia species of Comet or Blood Spotted Starfish will usually be close by. This is its primary food source.

Other info

Other Common Names: Clown Shrimp, Painted Shrimp, and Dancing Shrimp.

• Scientific Name: Hymenocera picta or Hymenocera elegans

 

 

It is time to Dive with the Mantas!

Visit Nusa Penida's Manta Point during the upcoming months and you are sure to find a load of large resident manta rays just hanging out. This is an event that should not be missed.

Mola Mola season is fast approaching so be sure to book your spot on our dive boat, Bali Ocean II for the best Mola Mola action in Bali.

see the best dates for Bali Mola Mola sightings in 2007.