Gecarcinus ruricola

Gecarcinus ruricola

Gecarcinus ruricola is a species of land crab that is commonly found in the Caribbean and the Atlantic coast of Central America. It is also known as the purple land crab, black land crab, or red land crab due to its distinctive color variations.

Description

Gecarcinus ruricola is a medium-sized crab, with males typically reaching a carapace width of up to 5 cm. The carapace is usually brightly colored, ranging from deep purple to black or red. The legs and claws are often a contrasting color, such as bright orange or yellow.

Habitat and Distribution

Gecarcinus ruricola is primarily a terrestrial species, but it is dependent on the sea for its larval development. It is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and human-modified environments. The species is widely distributed across the Caribbean, from the Bahamas and Cuba in the north to Trinidad and Tobago in the south. It is also found along the Atlantic coast of Central America, from Belize to Colombia.

Behavior and Ecology

Gecarcinus ruricola is a nocturnal species, spending the day hiding in burrows and emerging at night to feed. Its diet is omnivorous, including plant material, carrion, and small invertebrates. During the breeding season, females migrate to the sea to release their eggs, which develop into planktonic larvae.

Conservation Status

While Gecarcinus ruricola is not currently listed as threatened or endangered, it faces several threats, including habitat loss and overharvesting for food and bait. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat protection and sustainable harvesting practices.

See Also

• Gecarcinus lateralis
• Gecarcinus quadratus
• Land crab