A shrimp is a crustacean, typically belonging to the Caridea or Dendrobranchiata within the order Decapoda. Some definitions may include various small swimming crustaceans, including prawns. Shrimp have elongated bodies, long antennae, and thin legs, primarily used for perching. They swim by paddling with swimmerets but can quickly retreat by flicking their tails.
Widespread and abundant, shrimp thrive in various habitats, from coasts to freshwater environments, often near the seafloor. They can live between one to seven years and form schools during spawning. Important in the food chain, they serve as food for larger animals and are widely consumed by humans. However, issues like bycatch and pollution from shrimp farming are significant concerns.
