Tidal Spray Crab
Plagusia Depressa
Tidal Spray Crab
Plagusia Depressa
Plagusia depressa, commonly called the tidal spray crab, is a fast-moving, agile crab that lives along rocky shorelines in the intertidal zone. It is easily recognized by its broad, flattened body and its ability to cling tightly to rocks in areas exposed to waves and spray.
The carapace is wider than it is long and has a slightly rough, scaly look due to tiny hair-covered bumps. Its colour can vary, but it is usually reddish-brown, grey, or greenish, often with subtle mottling that helps it blend into the rocks. The claws are fairly short, with males having thicker pincers than females, and both claws and legs often show noticeable blue or purple spots or markings. The legs are long and strong, with hairy grooves and spiny tips that give the crab excellent grip and allow it to move quickly over wet, slippery surfaces.
This species is commonly found hiding in rock crevices along wave-washed shores, but it can also occur in shallow coastal waters and around coral reefs. Plagusia depressa is widespread across tropical regions of the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific oceans. When disturbed, it is remarkably quick, darting across rocks or disappearing into cracks, making it one of the most agile crabs seen along tropical coastlines.
Plagusia Depressa
Plagusia depressa, commonly called the tidal spray crab, is a fast-moving, agile crab that lives along rocky shorelines in the intertidal zone. It is easily recognized by its broad, flattened body and its ability to cling tightly to rocks in areas exposed to waves and spray.
The carapace is wider than it is long and has a slightly rough, scaly look due to tiny hair-covered bumps. Its colour can vary, but it is usually reddish-brown, grey, or greenish, often with subtle mottling that helps it blend into the rocks. The claws are fairly short, with males having thicker pincers than females, and both claws and legs often show noticeable blue or purple spots or markings. The legs are long and strong, with hairy grooves and spiny tips that give the crab excellent grip and allow it to move quickly over wet, slippery surfaces.
This species is commonly found hiding in rock crevices along wave-washed shores, but it can also occur in shallow coastal waters and around coral reefs. Plagusia depressa is widespread across tropical regions of the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific oceans. When disturbed, it is remarkably quick, darting across rocks or disappearing into cracks, making it one of the most agile crabs seen along tropical coastlines.
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