Majidae

Hyas coarctatus juvenile

Majoidea (pe Cyclocoeloma tuberculata) Landaagiraavaru

Leptomithrax gaimardii P2023255

Maja squinado

Micippa platipes, sur le dos

Female Mithraculus sculptus Crab

Majidae, commonly known as spider crabs, is a family of crustaceans that belong to the order Decapoda, which includes other well-known groups such as crabs, shrimps, and lobsters. The Majidae family is distinguished by their long legs in relation to their body size, giving them a spider-like appearance, which is the origin of their common name. This family encompasses a wide variety of species, each adapted to different habitats within the marine environment.

Description

Members of the Majidae family vary greatly in size and appearance, but they are most easily recognized by their long, slender legs and the often angular shapes of their carapaces. Many species have carapaces that are covered in spines or projections, which help in camouflage by allowing algae, sponges, and other organisms to attach, making the crabs blend into their surroundings. This adaptation is particularly useful as it provides protection from predators.

Habitat and Distribution

Majidae species are found in oceans all around the world, from shallow coastal waters to the deep sea. They tend to inhabit a variety of environments, including rocky reefs, sandy bottoms, and even the ocean floor at depths of several thousand meters. The adaptability of spider crabs to different marine environments is a key factor in their widespread distribution.

Diet

Spider crabs are generally omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant and animal matter. Their diet includes algae, detritus, small invertebrates, and sometimes even dead animals. The specific diet of a spider crab can vary widely depending on its species and the ecosystem in which it lives.

Reproduction

The reproduction process of Majidae involves the female carrying the fertilized eggs attached to her abdomen until they hatch. The number of eggs and the duration of the egg-carrying period can vary significantly among species. After hatching, the larvae go through several planktonic larval stages before settling to the bottom and developing into juvenile crabs.

Conservation

While many species within the Majidae family are not currently considered to be at risk, habitat destruction, pollution, and overfishing pose potential threats to their populations. Conservation efforts are important to ensure the sustainability of spider crab species, particularly those that are less common or have limited distributions.

In Culture

In some regions, certain species of Majidae are considered a delicacy and are fished for food. However, their significance varies greatly from one culture to another.