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Photo#746522
Mantis shrimp - Hemisquilla ensigera californiensis
Copyright © 2013 Ron Hemberger

Mantis shrimp - Hemisquilla ensigera californiensis
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, San Pedro, Los Angeles County
Shot in the aquarium 2-19-2013

The rigor of insect photography have gotten to me, so I'm doing very little of it any more. (Basically, gear got progressively heavier as I grew progressively infirm.)

I've started shooting heavily at three SoCal aquariums, primarily Cabrillo where I found this creature. I have little experience with marine life and will begin posting mostly what I can be fairly certain about self-identifying and ensuring Southern California residency. However, I will also ask for help with some IDs. Is Bug Guide up for this? (I'm guessing so.)

I have some nifty stuff not from these waters - sea dragons, lion fish, etc. - but will not post unless asked.

Any way, here's a fairly dramatic start...

Images of this individual: tag all
Mantis shrimp - Hemisquilla ensigera californiensis Mantis shrimp - Hemisquilla ensigera californiensis Mantis shrimp - Hemisquilla ensigera californiensis Mantis shrimp - Hemisquilla ensigera californiensis Mantis shrimp - Hemisquilla ensigera californiensis
Contributed by Ron Hemberger on 21 February, 2013 - 7:16pm
Last updated 7 May, 2015 - 7:41am

Amazing!
Thanks Ron for sharing these awesome "sea bug" photos!
… Jim Moore, 22 February, 2013 - 12:55pm

 
My pleasure, Jim.
This one was tough to shoot, and I didn't get lucky until my tenth visit or so. Critter lives beneath the bottom of the sea, ventures out stealthily, then scoots back with the slightest provocation. Use of flash isn't allowed in its tank, so you have to hope it'll pause now and then. Glad I stayed with it!
… Ron Hemberger, 22 February, 2013 - 4:22pm

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