Spider crab

Spider crabs are a type of marine crab that are known for their long legs, which resemble those of a spider. They belong to the superfamily Majoidea, which includes over 900 species of crabs. Spider crabs are found in oceans all over the world, from the shallow waters of the Pacific Ocean to the deep sea trenches of the Atlantic Ocean.

Characteristics

Spider crabs have a unique appearance, with their long, spindly legs and often large, rounded bodies. The size of spider crabs can vary greatly, with the smallest species measuring only a few centimeters in length, while the largest, the Japanese spider crab, can reach up to 4 meters from claw to claw.

Their bodies are usually covered in spines or tubercles, and many species have the ability to camouflage themselves by attaching seaweed or other marine life to their shells. This helps them to blend in with their surroundings and avoid predators.

Diet and Behavior

Spider crabs are typically scavengers, feeding on dead animals and plant material they find on the ocean floor. However, some species are also known to be predatory, hunting small fish and invertebrates.

They are generally slow-moving creatures, using their long legs to walk along the sea floor. During mating season, male spider crabs will often carry the smaller females on their backs for several days before the female releases her eggs.

Human Interaction

Several species of spider crabs are harvested for food by humans, particularly in Asia where they are considered a delicacy. The Japanese spider crab, for example, is highly prized in Japanese cuisine.

However, spider crabs are also often caught as bycatch in fishing nets, which can lead to declines in their populations. Some species are now considered threatened or endangered as a result.

See Also

• Crustacean
• Japanese spider crab
• Majoidea