Western King Prawn

Penaeus latisulcatus

The western king prawn (Penaeus latisulcatus) is a large marine prawn in the family Penaeidae. Adults reach up to 23 cm with a translucent to pinkish body, distinctive grooves on the carapace, and long antennae. This species inhabits sandy and muddy substrates in coastal waters, estuaries, and offshore areas at depths of 1-80 meters throughout the Indo-West Pacific. Western king prawns are nocturnal, burying in the substrate during the day and emerging at night to forage on organic matter, small invertebrates, and detritus. They are one of Australia's most commercially important prawn species, supporting major fisheries. During night dives, they can be observed walking across sandy substrates with their long antennae extended, searching for food. Their relatively large size and active nighttime behavior make them entertaining to observe on night diving excursions.