Stenopodidea

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Stenopodidea: /stɛnəˈpɒdɪdiːə/

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Summary

Stenopodidea, commonly known as boxer shrimps, are a unique infraorder of decapod crustaceans distinguished by their enlarged legs and reproductive methods. They are an important component of marine ecosystems, and their evolutionary adaptations have contributed to their diversity.

Physical Characteristics

Stenopodidea are characterized by their greatly enlarged third pair of legs and the absence of branching gills.

Identification Tips

Distinguish from Dendrobranchiata prawns by their lack of branching gills and from Caridea shrimp by their enlarged third legs.

Habitat

Typically found in marine environments, often associated with substrates like coral reefs and deep-sea habitats.

Distribution

Globally distributed in tropical and subtropical waters, with marine species found worldwide.

Diet

Carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates and detritus.

Life Cycle

Stenopodidea brood their eggs rather than releasing them directly into the water, which is a key differentiation from some other crustaceans.

Reproduction

Eggs are incubated by the female until they hatch into larvae, unlike the direct release seen in some other groups.

Predators

Typically preyed upon by larger marine animals, including fish and cephalopods.

Ecosystem Role

Play a role in the marine ecosystem as both predators and prey, contributing to the food web.

Collecting Methods

• Traps
• Netting

Preservation Methods

• Freezing
• Alcohol
• Drying

Evolution

The evolutionary history of Stenopodidea is indicated by both extant species and fossil records, with origins tracing back to the Devonian period.

Similar Taxa

• Caridea
• Procarididea

Misconceptions

Often confused with Caridea shrimp and Dendrobranchiata prawns due to superficial similarities.

Tags

• Crustacean
• Decapoda
• Boxer Shrimps
• Marine Biology