Rhynchocinetidae

Rhynchocinetidae is a family of marine decapod crustaceans called hinge-beak or camel shrimp. Its members are distinguished by a rostrum that can move at a joint.

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Rostrum (crustacean anatomy): A forward-projecting structure on a crustacean’s head, often extending between the eyes. Rhynchocinetids are named for this beak-like structure, which can pivot at a joint.
Rostral articulation: A joint between the rostrum and the carapace that permits the rostrum to move. This articulation is the family’s defining structural feature.
Rhynchocinetes: A genus of hinge-beak shrimp found in marine habitats, especially in the Indo-Pacific. It is the type genus of Rhynchocinetidae and includes many familiar members.
Cleaner shrimp: Shrimps that remove parasites and dead tissue from other animals, often at cleaning stations. Some hinge-beak shrimp are kept as cleaners, but the family is not defined by cleaning behavior.
Decapoda: An order of crustaceans characterized by five pairs of walking legs, including shrimps, crabs, and lobsters. Rhynchocinetidae belongs to this order of ten-legged crustaceans.
Carapace: A hard dorsal shield covering the head and thorax of many crustaceans. The rostrum hinges from the front of the carapace.
Cinetorhynchus: A genus of rhynchocinetid shrimps that includes species associated with reefs and caves. Its species illustrate the family’s range of marine habitats.
Marine aquarium: An aquarium designed to house organisms from saltwater environments. Several colorful rhynchocinetids are collected for the marine aquarium trade.
Caridea: A large infraorder of decapod crustaceans that includes most animals commonly called shrimp. The family is classified among caridean shrimps.
Pereiopod: A walking leg of a crustacean, often adapted for tasks such as handling food. Rhynchocinetid shrimp use their legs to move and manipulate food.