Brown shrimp

Scientific name: Crangon crangon

The Brown shrimp blends perfectly with its seabed home and is found all around the coasts of the UK.

Species information

Statistics

Length: Up to 8cm

Conservation status

Common

When to see

January to December

About

The Brown shrimp, also known as the Common shrimp, lives in shallow, sheltered waters of muddy and sandy shores. It is especially common in estuaries, such as The Wash. It is mottled brown in colour, blending perfectly with their home on the seabed. They will bury themselves in the sand to escape predators such as birds and fish.

How to identify

There are several, very similar species of shrimp around our coasts. This is the most common, found in large numbers in estuaries. It is practically translucent with brown mottling and antennae almost as long as its body.

Distribution

Found in on sandy or muddy seabeds all round our coasts, particularly common in estuaries.

Habitats

Marine

Did you know?

Brown shrimps can change colour to better match their surroundings using special cells called chromatophores.

How people can help

The Wildlife Trusts are working with fishermen, scientists, politicians and local people towards a vision of 'Living Seas', where marine wildlife thrives. Do your bit for our Living Seas by supporting your local Wildlife Trust or by checking out our Action Pages.