Observing Shrimp in Key West

Under the beautiful, blue waters of the Key West is an abundance of wild pink shrimp. Near brightly-colored coral and in shallow areas, shrimp swim and feed alone and in schools. From the crystal, clear waters of the Key West shores, these shrimp can be easily observed. Besides the common pink shrimp, there are literally thousands of shrimp species in a large variety of stunning colors such as bright orange, red, blue and yellow. In fact, there’s even a species of these little crustaceans called the pistol shrimp, or snapping shrimp that stuns its prey with andldquo;sonic booms.andrdquo; When these mighty little pistol shrimp produce their sonic booms in groups, the sound is so loud that it can actually obstruct underwater and sonar communications. What a feat for such a tiny creature of barely 2 inches in length!

If you’re interested in finding out how fishermen catch shrimp, you can be a part of a Key West shrimp boat charter and see shrimp-fishing, or shrimping, first hand. You can also enjoy Key West diving in deeper waters for a possible sighting of any one of the unique and stunning species of shrimp, including the graceful, stenciled Peppermint Shrimp, Tiger Pistol Shrimp, Coral Band Shrimp or the beautiful Harlequin Shrimp which feed off of starfish. With thin legs, long tails and lanky whiskers, shrimp are able to swim and dive around rather quickly. Perching on the bottom of the sea and on the sides of rocks, shrimp tend to look more like tiny rodents rather than the tasty little appetizers fancifully served at restaurants. Peradventure you do happen to come across any one of these attractive crustaceans; you’ll appreciate shrimp in a whole different light other than just as delicious seafood.