StomatopodaSquillidae

Squilla empusa

This record describes Squilla empusa (species). Recorded family: Squillidae. Recorded order: Stomatopoda.

Identification and Appearance

Squilla empusa - Squilla empusa
Contributed by Ken Wolgemuth

Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Malacostraca
Order
Stomatopoda (Mantis Shrimps)
Genus
Squilla

Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.

Additional species information

Species notes from the sources

Etymology: Squilla empusa Say 1818

About Mantis Shrimps: the wider group

Order-level background for Stomatopoda, the group containing Squilla empusa. Species-specific details appear above.

Group overview

This is a smaller arthropod order with specialized ecological roles. Arthropods are the most diverse animal phylum, comprising over 80% of all known animal species with approximately 1.2 million described species globally.

Ecological role of the group

Members of this order contribute to broader arthropod ecosystem functions including decomposition, predation, and serving as food sources for vertebrates. Arthropod biodiversity is essential for ecosystem resilience.

Economic and practical significance of the group

While this order has limited direct economic impact, arthropods collectively provide ecosystem services worth trillions of dollars annually through pollination, decomposition, pest control, and nutrient cycling.

Recorded sources for this group: General entomology and arthropod research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.

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How we use and review source data. Source count does not imply independent verification.

Photo credits: Contributed by Ken Wolgemuth. Contributors retain copyright over their individual contributions.