Smoothshell Crab
Anatomy
Like most crabs, smoothshell crabs have five sets of legs in a circular position, allowing for ample scuttling along the seabed, shores, and murky swamp waters. The chitin is significantly smoother and softer than other crustacean species, and is a bright crimson colour. This colour deters predators as it deceives them into thinking the crab is poisonous. They have two long antennas used to sense surroundings. Their claws are small but powerful, used to crack barnacles and invertebrates, eating the insides.Sexual Dimorphism
Female smoothshell crabs are wider than males, allowing them to easier carry eggs on their backs. Females of this species also possess a large crushing claw, which they most commonly use to scare off other males during nesting season.Reproduction
Female smoothshell crabs carry millions of miniscule eggs on their backs, which remain there until they hatch. The crabs will seek out small shelters, particularly in enclosed burrows below mackerel trees. The females will not leave their nest until all of the babies have fully grown, or at least grown to a point where they can defend themselves from predators.
In some rare cases, casts of smoothshell crabs can be seen releasing their eggs into the ocean. This usually happens when the crabs are in an environment without any naturally occurring burrows, as the crabs do not dig their own. The eggs are released so they have the best chance at survival, since females would not be capable of defending herself and her eggs from predators without a burrow to hide in.
Comments