The European Spider Crab, Spiny Spider Crab, Spinous Spider Crab—scientifically known as Maja squinado—is a large, distinctive decapod crustacean found in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean. Its unique appearance and impressive size have earned it a prominent place in marine ecosystems and the imaginations of those who encounter it.
Description & Characteristics
The Maja squinado boasts an imposing presence with a carapace that can reach up to 20 centimeters in width. It is renowned for its long, spiny legs, which can extend to a total span of over 1 meter. The crab’s body is covered in a multitude of sharp spines, providing protection and camouflage. Its color ranges from reddish-brown to grayish-brown, blending seamlessly with the rocky or sandy bottoms it calls home. Its prominent, elongated rostrum—a beak-like projection on the carapace—further accentuates its striking appearance. The European Spider Crab is a master of disguise, often adorning its body with sponges, algae, and other marine organisms, enhancing its camouflage abilities.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Maja squinado is a benthic species, residing on the seafloor. It typically prefers sandy seafloors, but can also be found on rocky bottoms. It’s a highly adaptable species, inhabiting various marine zones, from the lower reaches of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge at around 200 meters depth. This encompasses the subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, and deep zones, making the Maja squinado a prominent presence in these aquatic ecosystems. It is commonly found in the neritic zone, the shallow water area extending from the coastline to the shelf edge.
Taxonomy
The European Spider Crab, Spiny Spider Crab, Spinous Spider Crab, Maja squinado, is classified within the animal kingdom. It belongs to the Class: Malacostraca, the Order: Decapoda, and the Family: Majidae. This classification places it within a diverse and abundant group of marine crustaceans, highlighting its evolutionary lineage and relationships to other species within these taxonomic groups.
Distribution and Occurrence
The Maja squinado is found in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, with its range extending from the coasts of Norway and the British Isles south to Morocco and the Mediterranean Sea. This wide distribution showcases its adaptability and ability to thrive in a variety of habitats within its geographic range. Its prevalence in various marine zones, from the intertidal to the shelf edge, further underlines its ecological significance within these ecosystems.
Feeding
The Maja squinado is a carnivorous and predatory species, feeding on a diverse array of marine organisms. Its diet includes mollusks, worms, crustaceans, and fish. Its powerful claws enable it to break open the shells of its prey, providing access to their soft tissues. This predatory behavior plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem, regulating populations of other species and contributing to the intricate web of interactions within these environments.
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