Origin Penaeus monodon is native to the Indo-West Pacific oceans. Giant tiger prawn was introduced to the United States accidentally through commercial farming and intentionally by a research facility. Life Cycle P. monodon is a large and aggressive mollusk that grows to 1 ft. (0.3 m) in length and can weigh 1 lb (0.45 kg). The coloration resembles that of a tiger, hence its name, with a black body, orange stripes on its back, and black stripes on the dorsal side of the tail. Giant tiger prawn larvae, juveniles, and sub-adults are found in coastal estuaries, lagoons, and mangroves. Breeding occurs offshore and the life span is 3 years. Distribution P. monodon is present in the Gulf of Mexico, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Texas. Control Efforts The impact of P. monodon on native species is uncertain. However, giant tiger prawns can carry diseases and are capable of transferring them to native shrimp species. https://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/factsheet.aspx?SpeciesID=1209 http://www.tsusinvasives.org/home/database/penaeus-monodon