Dendrobranchiata are a suborder of decapod crustaceans commonly known as prawns. They inhabit marine environments and are characterized by their branching gill structures. Typically found in warm waters, they play a crucial role in the marine food chain, serving as prey for various fish and marine mammals.

Dendrobranchiata, commonly known as prawns, are primarily found in marine environments across the world's oceans. They are widely distributed in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, inhabiting coastal waters and continental shelves. Their native regions include tropical and subtropical areas, with significant populations in regions like the Gulf of Mexico, South China Sea, and the waters surrounding Australia and Southeast Asia.

Dendrobranchiata species typically inhabit shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and sometimes brackish environments. They are found in environments with sandy or muddy substrates where they can easily burrow and find sustenance. The water temperatures in their habitats usually range from warm to moderately warm, aligning with tropical and subtropical climates. The salinity levels in these environments can vary, particularly in estuarine areas, but prawns are adapted to cope with such variations.

Dendrobranchiata play a crucial role in the marine food web as both predators and prey. They feed on small particles, detritus, and plankton, acting as bottom feeders that help in nutrient cycling. In turn, they serve as a significant food source for various larger marine animals, including fish, birds, and marine mammals. This ecological role highlights their importance in maintaining the balance within their ecosystems.