Common family name
CrabsScientific Name
BrachyuraSize
From 5 mm to 4m.Identification
Oval to rounded carapace with five pairs of legs. The first pair is developed into claws, of which the size differs. The abdomen is shortened and retracted under the thorax. Eyes are on stalks and can’t be retracted. Colouration varies and red, brown, white, orange, black, beige, grey and blue colours occur. Spots and markings also differ.General Info
Brachyura infra-order is a group of crabs that have no visible tail. Falls under the suborder Pleocyemata (includes crabs, lobsters, crayfish and others). Most move sideways when walking. Hide in holes and crevices on reefs. Fertilised eggs The abdomen by the female and remain stuck to the pleopods (swimming legs) until they are ready to hatch.Feeding
Feeds on algae, worms, molluscs, fungi, bacteria and detritus.Distribution
Occurs in tropical and semi-tropical areas worldwide in fresh and sea water.Common Species
Clown crab - Platypodiella spectabilisGhost crab - Ocypode ryderi
Pebble crab - Leucosia anatum
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