Sand Hoppers

Scientific Name: Talorchestia species

Description: Sand Hoppers are amongst the most numerous animals found on beaches and in shallow coastal waters where they scavenge dead plant materials including algae washed up on the beach. Sand Hoppers have bodies that are thin but with strong legs for both grasping food with the front two pairs of legs which are armed with large claws, and for jumping, hence their name ‘hoppers’. Those that live on beaches bury themselves in the sand but quickly emerge to devour freshly arrived seaweeds.

Type: Crustaceans (Amphipods)
Where to find: Beaches
Size: 10mm