The peacock mantis shrimp (Odontodactylus scyllarus) is one of the most extraordinary animals in the ocean. Known for its dazzling colors, lightning-fast punches, and alien-like vision, this small marine creature has fascinated scientists, divers, and aquarium visitors around the world.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What Is a Peacock Mantis Shrimp?

Despite its name, the mantis shrimp is not actually a shrimp. It belongs to a group called stomatopods, relatives of crabs and lobsters that have existed for over 400 million years.

Peacock mantis shrimp are especially famous for their vibrant, rainbow-colored shells—featuring blues, greens, reds, and oranges that resemble a peacock's feathers.

They typically grow between 1–7 inches long and live in warm, shallow waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Incredible Vision

One of the most mind-blowing features of the peacock mantis shrimp is its eyesight.

• Humans have 3 types of color receptors
• Mantis shrimp have 12 or more photoreceptors

This allows them to:

• See ultraviolet (UV) light
• Detect polarized light
• Move each eye independently

Their eyes are so advanced that scientists are still studying how their vision works—and how it might inspire new technology.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Fastest Punch in the Ocean

The peacock mantis shrimp is best known for its incredibly powerful punch.

• Strikes at speeds comparable to a .22 caliber bullet
• Moves faster than the blink of an eye
• Can break shells—and even aquarium glass

When it punches, it creates a shockwave and tiny bubbles that collapse with additional force, delivering a double strike to its prey.

This makes it one of the most powerful predators relative to its size on Earth.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Habitat and Behavior

Peacock mantis shrimp live in:

• Coral reefs
• Sandy ocean floors
• Rocky coastal areas

They dig burrows where they hide, hunt, and raise their young.

These animals are:

• Solitary and territorial
• Highly aggressive hunters
• Carnivorous (they eat crabs, mollusks, and other small animals)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Where You Can See Peacock Mantis Shrimp

Seeing a peacock mantis shrimp in person is an unforgettable experience. Because they are so powerful and aggressive, aquariums must house them in reinforced tanks.

 Florida (Including Boca Raton)

• Boca Aquarium
  This unique aquarium experience is located inside a jewelry store showroom. It features multiple saltwater tanks, including shark tanks, reef systems, and seahorse displays. See a full list of our exhibits here!

 

• Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science
  A major science museum and aquarium in Miami featuring diverse marine species and rotating exhibits that may include unusual invertebrates like mantis shrimp.

 

• Gumbo Limbo Nature Center
  A coastal nature center focused on local marine ecosystems, offering educational exhibits and aquariums with Florida-native species.

 

Other Notable U.S. Locations

• Georgia Aquarium
• National Aquarium

These larger aquariums sometimes feature mantis shrimp in specialized exhibits.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Final Thoughts

The peacock mantis shrimp is one of the most extraordinary creatures in the ocean. From its rainbow-like armor to its explosive strength and complex vision, it challenges what we think is possible in the animal kingdom.

Whether you visit a major aquarium or a smaller, unique place like Boca Aquarium, seeing marine life up close can bring a deeper appreciation for these incredible animals.