Leptuca subcylindrica is a species of crab found in the intertidal zone of the Pacific coast of the Americas. It is a relatively small crab, typically reaching a maximum size of 2.5 centimeters in width.
Description & Characteristics
Leptuca subcylindrica has a distinctive cylindrical carapace, giving it its name. This carapace is smooth and slightly convex, with a distinct lateral margin. The crab’s color is typically a mottled brown or gray, providing camouflage amongst the rocky intertidal zone. It has a pair of large, prominent eyes, and its chelipeds (claws) are relatively small and slender.
Habitat and Occurrence
Leptuca subcylindrica is a common inhabitant of the rocky intertidal zone. It is found from the intertidal zone to depths of 20 meters, preferring areas with high wave action and abundant algae. This crab is typically found in the rocky tidepools and crevices along the Pacific coast of the Americas, extending from Alaska to Baja California. This includes the neritic zone, which is the shallow coastal waters extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
Leptuca subcylindrica is a member of the family Ocypodidae, which is a diverse group of crabs found in various marine environments. The family Ocypodidae falls within the Order Decapoda, which encompasses all of the familiar crabs, lobsters, and shrimp. This, in turn, places Leptuca subcylindrica within the Class Malacostraca, a large group of crustaceans that includes crabs, lobsters, shrimp, and other related species.
Feeding
Leptuca subcylindrica is an omnivorous crab, feeding on a variety of food sources, including algae, small invertebrates, and detritus. Its feeding habits play a crucial role in the intertidal ecosystem, contributing to the recycling of nutrients and the maintenance of a balanced food web.
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