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Zenopontonia rex
Also known as Imperial Cleaner Shrimp, Imperial Partner Shrimp, Imperator Shrimp, Imperator Commensal Shrimp, Commensal Emperor Shrimp and Emperor Partner Shrimp. Formerly classified as Periclimenes imperator. The shrimp's body is red with white lines or patches, and the appendages are purple. They feed on parasites, algae and plankton. They grow to a length of about 2cm.
Found in pairs living on sea cucumbers and Spanish Dancer Nudibranchs, at depths of 2 to 30m. Widespread in the Indo-Pacific and the Red Sea.
This pair of Emperors were on an eyed sea cucumber (Bohadschia argus), in about 25m of water. The bigger one (which I presume was the female) was extremely difficult to photograph because it moved very fast. The smaller of the two (shown in the 2nd photo here) was more timid and stayed put near the sea cucumber's anus.
Spotted on Apr 9, 2012
Submitted on Apr 11, 2012
11 Comments
I've recently been informed that Periclimenes imperator is now classified as Zenopontonia rex. (Ref.: http://www.ruthenica.com/documents/adver...)
Thanks, Gerardo! What was more incredible was how fast this little bugger moved! It was very difficult to get a good shot of her.
Wow another fantastic series Blogie
Incredible the contrast whit the sea cucumber.
Thanks Marta, you are too kind. Actually, some of my diver friends and I are thinking of doing just that! :)
As always, excellent shots! you should consider making a guide for marine critters from Philippines. I would be a sure customer :-)
Thanks, Sam! Yeah they certainly are beautiful. I just wish I could take better pictures of them next time -- and soon! :D
Congrats on your first Emperor! They are beautiful aren't they?
Thanks, everyone! Muchas gracias!
Wow who would have thought that's a shrimp.. Looks like some kind of nudibrach
Great capture Blogie!
Bello sensacional felicidades