Minuca mordax is a species of crab belonging to the family Ocypodidae, commonly known as the “ghost crab.” It is a fascinating creature that plays a significant role in the marine ecosystem.
Description & Characteristics
Minuca mordax is easily recognizable due to its distinctive pale coloration and slender, elongated legs. These crabs can grow up to a maximum size of 3.5 centimeters in carapace width. Their bodies are covered in a thin, smooth exoskeleton that provides protection and support. They also possess a pair of prominent eyes on stalks, which help them navigate their surroundings.
Habitat and Occurrence
Minuca mordax is found primarily in intertidal zones, where they burrow into the sand to escape predators and harsh environmental conditions. These crabs are particularly prevalent in the temperate and subtropical coastal regions of the Western Atlantic Ocean, particularly along the eastern coast of North America. This includes the coastal areas of the United States and parts of Canada. The marine zones they inhabit include the neritic zone, which extends from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in a variety of habitats, including sandy beaches, mudflats, and salt marshes.
Taxonomy
Minuca mordax is classified within the animal kingdom, belonging to the Phylum Arthropoda, which comprises a diverse group of invertebrates with jointed legs and an exoskeleton. Minuca mordax is further categorized within the Class Malacostraca, which encompasses a wide range of crustaceans, including crabs, lobsters, and shrimp. The Order Decapoda, to which Minuca mordax belongs, is characterized by the presence of ten walking legs, a prominent feature of many crab species. Within the Order Decapoda, Minuca mordax is classified under the Family Ocypodidae, which includes a variety of shore-dwelling crabs.
Feeding
Minuca mordax is an omnivorous species, feeding on a diverse diet that includes both plant and animal matter. Their feeding habits typically involve scavenging for dead organisms, foraging for algae, and consuming small invertebrates like worms and mollusks. They are often seen scurrying along the shoreline, using their sensitive antennae to locate food sources.
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