Mantis Shrimps are descended form an ancient lineage, having split away mainstream crustacean evolution some 400 million years ago. Individuals often grow as large as 30 cm (12 in). This colorful creature is often seen shuffling across the bottom, or with its head stuck out from its burrow entrance. Photographers can trick the creature into posing, by placing small stones in the burrow. the animal promptly emerges and clears away the unwanted debris. Mantis Shrimps are voracious predators, feeding mainly at night on fishes and other crustaceans, molluscs and worms. The victim's shell or body is crushed with the expanded claws on their second pair of legs. Captive specimens can break the glass of an aquarium with these powerful pincers. Needless to say, these animals should not be handled! Odontodactylus is easily distinguished by its bright green body color, blue head, and reddish antennae and thoracic limbs. Its preferred habitat is sandy or rubble bottoms down to at least 70 m (230 ft).
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