Crab

Crabs are small, hardy crustaceans commonly found along the coastlines and shallow waters of Helerin. Known for their tough exoskeletons and sideways scuttling movements, they play an essential role in the coastal ecosystem as scavengers and prey for larger creatures. While Crabs are generally harmless and widely harvested for their meat, the fearsome Krethgorr, a colossal relative, roams the deeper waters of Mar Mabon and the Seynan Islands, presenting a far greater threat.

Physical Appearance

Crabs vary in size but generally measure up to one foot in width. Their exoskeletons are hard and segmented, often brown, grey, or red in colour, offering them protection from predators.
They have multiple pairs of legs, the front two equipped with pincers for feeding and defence. These pincers are much smaller and less powerful than those of their massive relative, the Krethgorr, which is capable of crushing boats with ease.

Habitat

Crabs are found in shallow coastal waters, rocky shorelines, sandy beaches, and tidal pools throughout the Helerin Archipelago. They are particularly abundant near Forbin, Remon, and the Seynan Islands. These creatures prefer areas with access to food, such as decaying organic matter, small marine organisms, and plant life. The more dangerous Krethgorr inhabits deeper coastal waters and occasionally emerges onto beaches to scavenge.

Behaviour

Crabs are opportunistic scavengers, feeding on organic debris and small marine creatures. They use their pincers to break apart food and defend themselves from predators. Typically solitary, Crabs spend their time hiding under rocks or burrowing in the sand. During mating season, however, they gather in larger numbers. Their giant relativs, Krethgorrs, are far more aggressive and territorial, often attacking anything that enters their domain.

Geographic Distribution

Crabs are found in abundance along the coasts of Forbin, Remon, and the Seynan Islands. While they inhabit the shallow waters and tidal zones, the enormous Krethgorr is found around Mar Mabon and the Seynan Islands in deeper waters, where its immense size and power make it a danger to fishing vessels and coastal settlements.

Interaction with People

Crabs are a vital food source for coastal communities, providing protein and economic trade through their meat. They are caught in large numbers using traps or nets, and their mild, flavorful meat is enjoyed grilled, steamed, or in stews. However, the more fearsome Krethgorr is a source of both fear and awe. Brave hunters occasionally attempt to take down the Krethgorr for its valuable exoskeleton, but the risks are immense, and most people avoid these creatures entirely, leaving offerings in hopes of appeasing them.