Identification:
Large shrimp, reaching up to 30 cm in length (1.9 – 2 kg/individual), with females first spawning at approximately 20 cm. The body exhibits vibrant coloration: the entire body is bright green, the carapace is adorned with irregular patterns of white, cream, brown, black, and fuchsia; the second antennae have white filaments with two blue stripes in the middle, and the base is fuchsia-colored with blue spines; the posterior margin of each abdominal segment has three prominent white lines set on a dark blue band. The base of the first antennae has four large, nearly equal-sized spines arranged in a square. The third maxilliped lacks an external branch. The dorsal carapace of the abdominal segments lacks transverse grooves, although young individuals may show traces of these grooves with short hairs.
Biology and Ecology:
This species is characteristic of tropical seas, particularly coral reef environments. They are typically more active at night, living solitarily within coral reefs and adjacent coastal areas, ranging from the low tide zone to depths of about 15 meters, in areas with high water clarity and wave action.
Distribution:
Within Vietnam: Commonly found along the coasts of the Central and Southern regions.
Worldwide: Indian Ocean – Western Pacific: Japan, Australia, and Polynesia, the Red Sea, and East Africa.
Value:
Significant for scientific and research purposes. Suitable for commercial farming.
Status:
Prior to 1975, the distribution area was extensive across coastal coral reefs. Currently, due to coral exploitation for cement production or handicrafts, the development of coastal tourism, and destructive fishing practices such as the use of explosives, the habitat has been damaged and destroyed. It is estimated that over the past 10 years, the distribution area and habitat have shrunk by up to 20%, and the population has declined by over 20%.
Classification:
VU A1c,d (Vulnerable).
Conservation Measures:
Included in the Vietnam Red Data Book in 1992 and 2000. Recommendations: prohibit coral exploitation, fishing with explosives or poisons, and avoid pollution caused by tourism activities.