Palaemon serratus

Palaemon serratus

Palaemon serratus, commonly known as the common prawn, is a species of shrimp found in the Atlantic Ocean. It is a member of the Palaemonidae family and is widely distributed in the coastal waters of Europe.

Description

The Palaemon serratus is a small shrimp, typically measuring between 3 and 5 cm in length. It has a transparent body with a series of brown or red bands running along its length. The species is distinguished by its long, serrated rostrum, which gives it its name.

Distribution and Habitat

The Palaemon serratus is found in the Atlantic Ocean, from Norway to Morocco, and in the Mediterranean Sea. It inhabits a variety of habitats, including rocky shores, estuaries, and seagrass beds. The species is typically found at depths of up to 40 meters.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of the Palaemon serratus includes a larval stage, which lasts for about 30 days. The larvae are planktonic and are carried by ocean currents. After the larval stage, the shrimp settle on the seafloor and begin to grow and mature. The species is known to breed throughout the year, with females producing up to 200 eggs at a time.

Diet

The diet of the Palaemon serratus consists mainly of small invertebrates, including other crustaceans, mollusks, and worms. The species is also known to scavenge on dead organic matter.

Economic Importance

The Palaemon serratus is of significant economic importance in many parts of its range. It is harvested both commercially and recreationally, and is a popular species for aquaculture. The species is also used in scientific research, particularly in studies of crustacean physiology and ecology.

See Also

• Palaemonidae
• Atlantic Ocean
• Aquaculture

References

• MarLIN - The Marine Life Information Network
• SeaLifeBase - Palaemon serratus

External Links

• IUCN Red List - Palaemon serratus
• FishBase - Palaemon serratus