Scientific Name: Miropandalus hardingi
Common Name: Dragon shrimp
Size: 1.5 – 2.5 cm
Depth Range: 10 – 40 m
Habitat: Lives on black corals (Antipatharians) and wire corals in deeper reef environments
Diet: Feeds on detritus and microorganisms trapped on its coral host
Reproduction: Separate sexes; females carry fertilized eggs under the abdomen until they hatch
Fun Fact: Its armor-like body and spiky appearance give it a true “dragon” look—yet it’s incredibly hard to spot due to perfect camouflage against its host coral.

Observation Tip: Look carefully along black or wire corals at depth. The shrimp’s spiny outline blends in with coral polyps, and its small size makes it very easy to miss!