Parasitic shrimp that inspired Aliens monster washes up on Kerry shore
Now, a rare breed of parasitic shrimp, which inspired the aliens in the film, has been discovered near a beach in Kerry.
Marine experts were astonished to find several barrel-shaped parasites washed up in Ventry and fear it could have major long-term ramifications for fish life in the area.
Biologist Kevin Flannery made the discovery on Sunday and said the shrimp, a 2cm-long phronina, is known to burrow its way into host fish before devouring them. It then moves onto other fish and the pattern continues.
“This is the type that was made famous in Aliens but, unfortunately, it’s famous for all the wrong reasons,” said Mr Flannery, who handed the shrimp to authorities at Dingle Oceanworld for examination and scrutiny.
He stumbled across the shrimp while walking and was amazed by the find.
“It’s certainly the first time I’ve ever seen these in Kerry and it’s a very, very rare sight indeed.”
