Oplophorus

Oplophorus is a genus of shrimp in the family Oplophoridae, within the order Decapoda. Species in this genus are marine crustaceans that occur in oceans worldwide, from shallow coastal waters to deeper regions. They are typically small to medium-sized carideans with a slender body, and many display a distinctive rostrum and a laterally compressed form suited to their habitats on soft substrates or rocky bottoms.

Bioluminescence is a notable feature of several Oplophorus species. They possess photophore organs that emit light, a trait well adapted to the dim environments of the deep sea. The light production is produced by a luciferase–luciferin reaction, and in some species the arrangement and control of photophores are implicated in ecological interactions such as camouflage, communication, and predator avoidance.

A prominent member of the genus is Oplophorus gracilirostris, whose bioluminescent system has attracted scientific interest. The native luciferase produced in light-emitting organs is a two-subunit protein. In biotechnology, researchers isolated the small subunit of this enzyme and, through genetic engineering, developed NanoLuc luciferase, a compact and bright reporter widely used in molecular biology for imaging and quantification. The full native enzyme continues to be studied to understand the structure and function of marine bioluminescence.

Taxonomy and diversity: The genus comprises multiple described species, with ongoing taxonomic work as molecular data refine relationships within the family Oplophoridae. Conservation assessments vary by species, and deep-sea shrimp face general pressures related to habitat disturbance and changing ocean conditions.