The Durban Dancing Shrimp (Rhynchocinetes durbanensis) stands out with its vibrant red body covered with bold white stripes and dots. It has a slender, segmented body, long antennae, and large asymmetric pincers. One of its most distinctive features is its prominent rostrum at the front, which resembles a beak and can move from side to side, contributing to its unique "dancing" behavior. Larger individuals can reach up to 4 cm in length, with males easily identified by their substantially larger claws compared to females.
Behavior and Diet
These shrimp are often seen in pairs or small groups within coral reefs, where they exhibit their signature "dance" moves. They use their large claws to perform rhythmic motions, which is believed to help them communicate or attract mates.
They are more active at night, which is when they typically feed. During the day, they prefer to hide in darker crevices and holes within the reef for protection.
In terms of diet, Durban Dancing Shrimp primarily feed on small invertebrates, such as plankton and tiny crustaceans. They use their pincers to capture and manipulate their food, which they then consume with their specialized mouthparts. Their diet is complemented by their role in the reef ecosystem, as they help keep their environment clean by scavenging for detritus and parasites. The Durban Dancing Shrimp often engages in symbiotic relationships with fish species. They use their antennae to signal that they’re available for cleaning, and in return, they remove parasites and dead skin from the fish. This mutualistic behavior provides the shrimp with food while helping to keep the fish clean.
Reproduction
The Durban Dancing Shrimp’s reproduction involves a series of intriguing behaviors. During mating, which typically happens at night, the shrimp perform elaborate courtship displays to attract mates. After mating, the female carries fertilized eggs in specialized areas under her abdomen called pleopods until they hatch. The eggs develop into larvae, which are released into the water. These planktonic larvae drift with ocean currents and go through several developmental stages before settling into their adult form.
Predators
The Durban Dancing Shrimp faces various predators, including larger fish, eels, and crabs that inhabit the coral reefs. They are vulnerable, especially when venturing out to clean fish or forage for food. Staying hidden in crevices during the day helps them avoid being an easy target for these predators.
Where to Find Durban Dancing Shrimp on Koh Tao
On Koh Tao, Durban Dancing Shrimp can be found in the crevices and cracks of coral reefs, typically around dive sites with rocky formations and coral overhangs. Popular spots for encountering them include
These shrimp are more active at night, so night dives offer the best chance to observe their fascinating behavior as they emerge from their daytime hiding spots. White Rock dive site is one of the top spots to see them in action.
