Sponge amphipod
Introduction: Sponge amphipods (Leucothoe spinicarpa) are equipped with very large nippers. The first pair form an distinctive 'finger' by the last 2 body segments. They are so-called because of they live commensally within the body cavities of sponges and ascidans.
Distribution: Found from the Orange River mouth to Swakopmund and Walvis Bay as far as the Kunene River mouth.
Diet: Filters food particles from the stream of water pumped through the host's body
Colouration: Uniform pale-pink to mauve
Breeding: Eggs are hatched from a brood pod underneath the body as adults
Max size: 10mm
.png?width=67&height=40&name=Navigate%20Namibia-03%20(1).png){kind=small}