The common prawn (Palaemon serratus) is a quick and agile crustacean commonly found in rockpools and shallow coastal waters around the United Kingdom. Growing up to around 11cm long, it has a translucent body with brownish-red tiger-like stripes, long antennae and prominent eyes.
An opportunistic scavenger, the common prawn feeds on seaweed, small invertebrates and carrion. Females carry their fertilised eggs beneath their bodies, sometimes numbering in the thousands. A familiar sight when rockpooling, this species plays an important role in coastal food webs.
Habitat
Tidepools and Rocky shores
Depth
0-40m
Food
Scavenger omnivores, they eat a variety of small prey including smaller crustacea and plankton.
Length
Max. length of 10-11cm
Lifespan
3-5years
Conservation Status
Not Evaluated
