Lawn Shrimp (or Land Hopper)

Scientific Name: Arcitalitrus sylvaticus

Order & Family: Order Amphipoda; Family Talitridae

Size: 5 to 15 mm in length

Lawn Shrimp (or Land Hopper)

Natural Habitat

Damp soil, leaf litter, and mulch; often migrate to pavement or indoors after heavy rain.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on decaying organic matter and detritus.

Behavior Patterns

They are terrestrial crustaceans that require high moisture levels to breathe. They are known for jumping when disturbed and often die quickly and turn pink/red when they lose moisture.

Risks & Benefits

They are harmless to humans, pets, and structures. They benefit the ecosystem by decomposing organic matter, though they can be a minor nuisance when they enter homes in large numbers.

Identified on: 5/24/2026