A story of the toothpick.

Abstract

In the Bahamas, such a symbolic relationship exists between the Pederson shrimp and its many clients. When a fish approaches, the shrimp will whip its long antennae (which is considerably longer than its body) and sway its body back and forth. If the fish is interested, it will swim directly to the shrimp and stop an inch or two away and present its head and gill covering for a cleaning. The shrimp is even permitted to enter and leave the fish's mouth in order that it may thoroughly cleanse the fish's teeth and oral cavity. Local fish quickly learn the location of these shrimp and they will line up or crowd around eagerly awaiting their turn.