Austruca bengali is a species of crab belonging to the family Ocypodidae, commonly known as ghost crabs or fiddler crabs. These crabs are distinguished by their unique appearance and intriguing behaviors, playing a crucial role in the coastal ecosystems they inhabit.
Description & Characteristics
Austruca bengali is a medium-sized crab, with adults reaching a maximum size of approximately 10 centimeters in carapace width. Its carapace is typically smooth and glossy, exhibiting a light brown or grayish color with darker markings. The species is characterized by its distinctive, elongated chelipeds (claws), particularly in males, where one claw is significantly larger than the other. These claws are used for signaling and attracting mates, as well as for digging burrows and defending territory.
Habitat and Occurrence
Austruca bengali is primarily found in the intertidal zone of coastal areas, inhabiting sandy beaches and mudflats. Their distribution is concentrated in the Indo-Pacific region, specifically along the coasts of India, Bangladesh, and Southeast Asia. These crabs prefer areas with moderate wave action and ample access to food sources. As they inhabit the intertidal zone, they experience a range of salinity levels, adapting to both freshwater and saltwater environments.
Taxonomy
Austruca bengali is classified within the Class: Malacostraca, Order: Decapoda, and Family: Ocypodidae. This classification places it within the broad category of crustaceans, which includes a wide variety of aquatic invertebrates. The Decapoda order encompasses crabs, lobsters, and shrimps, characterized by their ten walking legs. Within the family Ocypodidae, Austruca bengali is grouped with other ghost crabs and fiddler crabs, known for their distinctive behaviors and adaptations to coastal environments.
Feeding
Austruca bengali is an omnivorous species, feeding on a diverse range of food sources. Their diet primarily consists of organic matter, including algae, detritus, and small invertebrates. These crabs are opportunistic feeders, scavenging for food in the intertidal zone and utilizing their strong claws to dig and extract sustenance from the substrate. Their feeding habits play an important role in nutrient cycling and maintaining the balance of the coastal ecosystem.
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