Ar-1360 GRASS SHRIMP, Palaemonetes pugio

They are a small shrimp so transparent they hardly cast a shadow. In the winter the tidal creeks seethe with them, providing food for a tremendous number of estuarine fishes, wading birds, alligators, etc. They also provide research opportunities for scientists working with the hormonal control of chromatophores in endocrinology, and are classical subjects in water quality/pollution work. In summer their numbers are greatly diminished by predators, but their rapid reproduction quickly builds their numbers back in the fall. They have a life cycle of one year and can reach maturity in 2 to 3 months. Ovigerous females available from March to October.