Helice tridens

Helice_tridens_(Kohnoura)

Helice tridens is a species of crab belonging to the family Varunidae. This species is commonly found in the intertidal zones of estuaries and coastal areas in East Asia, particularly in countries such as Japan, China, and Korea.

Description

Helice tridens is characterized by its robust and squarish carapace, which can reach up to 3 cm in width. The carapace is typically dark brown or greenish in color, with a smooth texture. The species is known for its three distinct teeth on the anterolateral margins of the carapace, which is a key identifying feature.

Habitat

Helice tridens inhabits muddy or sandy substrates in intertidal zones, often found in estuaries and coastal areas. They are adapted to environments with varying salinity levels, making them a common sight in brackish waters. These crabs are burrowers, creating burrows in the substrate to protect themselves from predators and environmental stressors.

Behavior

Helice tridens is primarily nocturnal, emerging from its burrows at night to forage for food. Their diet consists mainly of detritus, small invertebrates, and plant material. They play a significant role in the ecosystem by contributing to the breakdown of organic matter and aerating the soil through their burrowing activities.

Reproduction

The reproductive season of Helice tridens typically occurs in the warmer months. Females carry fertilized eggs on their abdomen until they hatch into larvae. The larvae undergo several planktonic stages before settling to the bottom and metamorphosing into juvenile crabs.

Economic Importance

Helice tridens is not a major target for commercial fisheries, but it is sometimes collected for local consumption. Additionally, it is of interest to researchers studying estuarine ecosystems and the effects of environmental changes on intertidal species.

Conservation

Currently, there are no major conservation concerns for Helice tridens. However, habitat degradation and pollution in coastal areas could potentially impact their populations. Conservation efforts aimed at protecting estuarine and coastal habitats would benefit this species.

See Also

• Crab
• Varunidae
• Estuary
• Intertidal zone