Contents
Introduction
The Mantis shrimp is a fascinating creature that is known for its vibrant colors. It is famous for having the most complex eyes in the animal kingdom, which enables it to see a vast range of colors. There are over 400 species of mantis shrimp, and some of them have colors that are beyond human imagination. In this article, we will explore the colors of the rainbow mantis shrimp.
Colors of the Rainbow Mantis Shrimp
The rainbow mantis shrimp (Gonodactylus smithii) is one of the most colorful species of mantis shrimp. It has a hard exoskeleton that is covered with vivid hues of green, blue, and red. The colors are so bright that they seem to glow in the dark. The rainbow mantis shrimp is named after the rainbow because of its stunning colors.
Green Color
The green color in the rainbow mantis shrimp is caused by the presence of a pigment called chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is a green pigment that is found in plants, and it is responsible for photosynthesis. The rainbow mantis shrimp has a green exoskeleton, which helps it to blend in with the surrounding vegetation.
Blue Color
The blue color in the rainbow mantis shrimp is caused by the presence of a pigment called carotenoids. Carotenoids are organic pigments that are found in plants and animals. They are responsible for the bright colors of fruits and vegetables. The rainbow mantis shrimp has a blue exoskeleton, which helps it to blend in with the surrounding water.
Red Color
The red color in the rainbow mantis shrimp is caused by the presence of a pigment called astaxanthin. Astaxanthin is a red pigment that is found in algae, yeast, salmon, trout, krill, shrimp, crayfish, and crustaceans. The rainbow mantis shrimp has a red exoskeleton, which helps it to blend in with the surrounding coral reefs.
Behavior of Rainbow Mantis Shrimp
The rainbow mantis shrimp is a solitary creature that lives in burrows in the ocean floor. It is a highly aggressive predator that feeds on small fish, crabs, and other invertebrates. The rainbow mantis shrimp is known for its powerful punch, which it uses to stun its prey. The punch is so strong that it can break glass.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the rainbow mantis shrimp is one of the most colorful and fascinating creatures in the ocean. Its bright colors are caused by the presence of different pigments, each of which serves a unique purpose. The rainbow mantis shrimp is not only beautiful but also a highly skilled predator that has evolved to survive in its environment.