Stenopus hispidus (Olivier, 1811)
80mm

Common and easily recognized, Stenopus hispidus has also been called the banded coral shrimp or barber pole shrimp. They are common on the reefs, but during the day usually hide under rocks or in holes and small caves. Often all you see of them are their long white antennae poking out of a hole or from behind an outcrop. At night, they are more exposed and easy to see.

While it does not seem to be too common, on several occasions we have seen smaller ones riding on the back of a larger one.

Close up of the claw. They actually have a pretty good pinch.

Created 4 July 2018
Updated 14 November 2020

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