Acetes

Acetes is a genus of small shrimp that are significant in the ecosystem due to their role as a food source for larger marine animals. They are also important in human cuisine, particularly in Southeast Asia, where they are used to make a variety of dishes and condiments.

Taxonomy

The genus Acetes is part of the family Sergestidae, which includes several other genera of small shrimp. The genus was first described by the British zoologist John Edward Gray in 1860. There are several species within the genus, including Acetes japonicus, Acetes chinensis, and Acetes indicus.

Description

Acetes shrimp are small, typically measuring less than 2 cm in length. They have a transparent body, which can make them difficult to see in the water. They are known for their ability to swim backwards quickly, a common trait among shrimp.

Distribution and habitat

Acetes shrimp are found in the coastal waters of the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, particularly around Southeast Asia. They prefer warm, tropical waters and are often found in large swarms near the surface of the water.

Role in the ecosystem

Acetes shrimp are a key part of the marine food chain. They feed on plankton and other small organisms, and in turn are preyed upon by larger marine animals such as fish and squid. Their swarming behavior makes them an abundant food source for these predators.

Use in cuisine

In Southeast Asian cuisine, Acetes shrimp are used to make a variety of dishes and condiments. They are often dried and ground into a powder, which is used as a flavoring in dishes such as nasi lemak and pad thai. They are also used to make shrimp paste, a common ingredient in many Southeast Asian dishes.

See also

• Sergestidae
• Shrimp paste
• Nasi lemak
• Pad thai