Physical 

 Mantis shrimp are flat, large-clawed shrimp with three sets of weak walking legs. They have powerful “scissor-like mandibles,” and individuals grow to an overall length of 25 cm. Mantis shrimp are not true shrimp but shrimp-like crustaceans with praying mantis-like claws.

Habitat

 S. empusa hide in complex burrows, often with numerous exits. They prefer muddy substrates and can be found in subtidal areas.  They are nocturnal.

Feeding 

Mantis shrimp are fierce predators, eating fish, crabs, worms, and even other mantis shrimp. They spear or slice through their prey with lightning-quick movements of their powerful claws.  Their claws can also hurt humans, leading to their nickname of “thumb-splitters.”