White Shrimp

Litopenaeus setiferus · Also known as: green-tailed shrimp

Pale bay and nearshore shrimp overlapping brown shrimp in Mid-Atlantic waters. Another piece of the OC baitfish and shrimp complex.

White Shrimp (Litopenaeus setiferus) — Ocean City, Maryland
Photo via Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons — Litopenaeus setiferus

Quick facts

GroupShrimp
Likelihood nearby★★★☆☆
Habitats Coastal bays, Salt marsh, Offshore / ocean
Seasons (this coast)summer, fall

How to recognize them

  • Lighter body than brown shrimp; subtle color differences best told in hand.

Biology notes

  • Estuarine-dependent life cycle; supports fish and crab food webs.

Where to see them around Ocean City

  • Same shallow bay habitats and bait fisheries as brown shrimp around Ocean City.

When to look

  • Late summer–fall runs are often talked about by local anglers.

Viewing tips & etiquette

  • Field ID is tricky—enjoy them as “shrimp in the bay” unless you have a key.

Sources & further reading