Goby and Pistol Shrimp

The Perfect Partnership

• The Shrimp's Role: The pistol (or snapping) shrimp is an expert digger but has notoriously poor eyesight. It constantly excavates and maintains a safe burrow. 

• The Goby's Role: Prawn or shrimp gobies have excellent vision. They hover at the entrance of the burrow, keeping watch for predators such as groupers. 

• Communication: The pair stays in constant physical contact. The shrimp rests its sensitive antennae on the goby's tail. If the goby spots danger, it flicks its tail to signal the shrimp, and both retreat safely into the burrow.