Pagurus angustus, also known as the slender hermit crab, is a species of hermit crab found in various marine environments. This fascinating crustacean is characterized by its distinctive appearance and behavior, making it a notable inhabitant of the underwater world.
Description & Characteristics
Pagurus angustus, as its name suggests, is a relatively slender hermit crab. Its body is elongated and typically measures around 20 millimeters in length. Like other hermit crabs, Pagurus angustus relies on empty gastropod shells for protection, housing its soft abdomen within the spiral cavity of the shell.
Habitat and Occurrence
Pagurus angustus is a common inhabitant of the intertidal zone, often found in rocky shores and tide pools. It prefers areas with abundant seaweed and small invertebrates, which provide food and shelter. This species is known to occur in the temperate waters of the northwestern Atlantic Ocean, extending from Newfoundland to North Carolina. The species is typically found in depths ranging from the intertidal zone down to about 50 meters.
Taxonomy
Pagurus angustus belongs to the Class: Malacostraca, Order: Decapoda, and Family: Paguridae. This classification places it within the broader category of crustaceans, specifically decapods, which are characterized by their ten walking legs. The family Paguridae, which includes all hermit crabs, is recognized by its members’ reliance on gastropod shells for protection.
Feeding
Pagurus angustus is a scavenger and a carnivore, feeding on a variety of small organisms and decaying matter. Its diet may include algae, small crustaceans, mollusks, and other marine debris. This species is known to be an important component of the food web, contributing to the breakdown of organic matter and recycling nutrients within its environment.
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