The common prawn is a surprisingly sophisticated listener in the underwater world

Nature · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: While most invertebrates are thought to be deaf to the world, the common prawn, Palaemon serratus, possesses a hearing range that rivals many fish. This pinkish-brown crustacean, the largest of its kind in the British Isles, navigates rocky crevices while listening to frequencies between 100 Hz and 3 kHz.

Palaemon serratus, frequently referred to as the common prawn, is a widespread species inhabiting the Atlantic Ocean from Denmark down to Mauritania, as well as the Mediterranean and Black Seas. These crustaceans typically reach lengths of 100 millimetres and live for three to five years, often congregating in rocky crevices at depths reaching 40 metres. Their physical appearance is distinct, marked by a rostrum that curves upward and features a specific arrangement of six to seven teeth on the upper edge and four to five on the lower edge.

Beyond their physical traits, these prawns are notable for their auditory capabilities. Unlike many other invertebrates, P. serratus has been studied in detail for its hearing. Research indicates that they are sensitive to frequencies ranging from 100 Hz to 3 kHz, with a consistent ability to detect tones at 500 Hz throughout their lives. This level of acuity is comparable to that of generalist fish, allowing them to perceive their environment in ways that were once thought impossible for such creatures.

However, the life of a common prawn is not without its challenges. They are frequently preyed upon by various fish families, including Mullidae and Sparidae. Furthermore, they can fall victim to parasites; a prominent bulge in the carapace over the gills often signals the presence of an isopod like Bopyrus squillarum. In the commercial sphere, the species supports a fishery that has expanded significantly since the 1970s. With landings peaking at 548 tonnes in 1999, concerns regarding overfishing have emerged, leading to discussions about implementing conservation measures such as minimum landing sizes to protect the population.

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