{"id":1575,"date":"2024-08-14T22:19:23","date_gmt":"2024-08-14T20:19:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.karibiodiv.net\/en\/?post_type=post_faune&p=1575"},"modified":"2025-09-30T21:31:05","modified_gmt":"2025-09-30T19:31:05","slug":"ouassou-le-rois-des-sources","status":"publish","type":"post_faune","link":"https:\/\/www.karibiodiv.net\/en\/faune-caribeenne\/ouassou-le-rois-des-sources\/","title":{"rendered":"Ouassou “King of the springs”"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Context<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The \u201cOuassou\u201d (King of the Springs) is the name used in the Caribbean, particularly in Guadeloupe, to refer to several species of freshwater shrimp in the genus Macrobrachium. The term does not refer to a single species but broadly encompasses the giant freshwater shrimp found in the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Description<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Ouassou in this case, scientifically named Macrobrachium carcinus, belongs to the family of crustaceans often called \u201cOuassou\u201d in the Caribbean, referring to freshwater shrimp of the genus Macrobrachium, also known as \u201cgiant freshwater shrimp.\u201d It is a large freshwater crustacean, often considered one of the largest in its genus, hence its nickname \u201cKing of the Springs,\u201d which reflects its impressive size and dominant role in freshwater ecosystems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It is highly valued in the region for its culinary qualities, although a related species is often used in aquaculture due to challenges such as cannibalism. Beyond its culinary importance, the Ouassou also plays a crucial ecological role in the rivers and freshwater habitats where it occurs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Macrobrachium carcinus is one of the largest freshwater shrimp, often reaching impressive sizes of 30 cm or more. Its large claws are particularly strong, allowing it to defend itself and hunt effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Lifestyle<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This freshwater shrimp is an important predator in its habitat, playing a crucial role in the food chain of rivers and estuaries. Often at the top of the local aquatic hierarchy\u2014hence the nickname \u201cKing of the Springs\u201d\u2014it is mainly found in rivers, streams, and estuaries, moving between freshwater and brackish water. Its distribution spans the Americas, from the southern United States to South America, including the Caribbean.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Reproduction and Larval Development :<\/em><\/strong>
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