By: Jenna Davidson

 All pistol shrimp have one (Or sometimes two) oversized claw that create a bubble as it snaps shut. A loud "popping" noise is created as well. It also appears that the bubbles emit a brief flash of light when they collapse. This is because the bubbles compress so quickly that the air inside cannot escape. As a result, it becomes superheated, sometimes approaching the surface temperature of the sun.

 Pistol shrimp prey on smaller shrimp, but they are also known as excellent scavengers in the marine aquarium.  They commonly build burrows in the sand and have been known to tunnel underneath the live rock. Therein lies the danger. If your live rock is not properly secured, the entire foundation can collapse

 pistol shrimp form a symbiotic relationship with some species of goby fish.  Both parties benefit from the relationship. Pistol shrimp naturally have very bad eyesight and rely on the goby to warn it when danger approaches.  It does this by keeping in constant physical contact with the goby by resting its antennae on the goby's tail and body.  Any sudden movements from the goby is interpreted as a sign of danger and is a cue for the pistol shrimp to return to its burrow.  In return, the pistol shrimp provides a safe burrow for the goby

 There are over 500 hundred species of pistol shrimp documented thus far. And are found in tropical and temperate coastal and marine waters. They grow to be an average of 3.5 cm.

 The body of a tiger pistol shrimp is tan with rust-colored broken stripes running across the back. They have two claws: a pincher and snapper. The snapper can deliver a strong blast of water jet that can stun their prey. It is native to tropical waters, including Baja California.

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