User:BenjaminMoes/sandbox

The claw of the snapping shrimp is a dimorphic addition to the arsenal of the shrimp. The spanning shrimp species will retain the same mate after copulation, making their mating system monogamous. Most females of the Alpheidae species are susceptible to mating either young females become receptive to males just before (premolt stage) or after the puberty molt, making them physiologically mature and morphologically able to carry the egg mass. Male presence during the molt is beneficial for the female, as searching for a male during her soft‐bodied receptive phase would put her at mortal risk. Mates derive more mating success from partners with increased body mass. The larger shrimp are most successful. These animals practice mate guarding. This leads to a decline in mate competition, as well as creates a bond between the partners. The male and female will defend their shelter to protect territory as well as young. Larva develop in three stages: The nauplius larvae, zoea, and post larval stages.