Lawn Shrimp (also known as Arcitalitrus sylvaticus or Landhopper)

Natural Habitat

Moist soil, mulch, leaf litter, and damp garden areas. They often migrate indoors or onto pavements after heavy rains to avoid drowning.

Diet & Feeding

Detritivores feeding on decaying organic matter, such as rotting leaves, mulch, and soft plant debris.

Behavior Patterns

They are nocturnal and require high humidity to survive. When disturbed or when they die, they turn a distinctive pink or orange-red color. They jump erratically like fleas when uncovered.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans and pets; they do not bite or sting. They are beneficial decomposers in the garden ecosystem but can be a nuisance pest when entering homes in large numbers.

Identified on: 2/21/2026