Emperor Shrimp
About the Emperor Shrimp
One of the most photographed crustaceans due to their vivid orange and purple coloring. They live commensally on sea cucumbers and nudibranchs, eating parasites and detritus while getting free transport. They are tiny, only 1-2 cm. They are found throughout the Indo-Pacific. They are popular with underwater macro photographers. Their host provides protection from predators. They can switch hosts. They are not parasites - both organisms benefit. They are one of many commensal shrimp species. Their bright colors may serve as warning coloration to predators.
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