Excirolana chiltoni, commonly referred to as sand piranhas, are tiny crustaceans that inhabit the swash zone of beaches. These tiny creatures are adept scavengers, often feeding on dead marine life or, at times, unfortunate beachgoers. Characterized by their sharp bites that feel like a razor blade, they employ hooks on their legs and mandibles to scrape food into their mouths. With their sand-colored camouflage and tendency to remain in small groups, these crustaceans can easily go unnoticed as they clean up in coastal environments, highlighting their significance in marine ecosystems.
Sand piranhas (Excirolana chiltoni) are tiny crustaceans known for their sharp bites and protein-seeking behavior in coastal environments.
Found along shallow waters, these sand-colored creatures camouflage themselves well while scavenging on beach debris and, occasionally, beachgoers.
Their feeding process involves scraping food with strong mandibles and using hooks on legs for stability; they consume dead animals and can bite unsuspecting humans.
Though they might appear harmless, sand piranhas can inflict painful bites, leading to a sharp sting, showcasing their opportunistic feeding habits.
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