The Spiny-legged Rock Crab, scientifically known as Actaeodes tomentosus, is a fascinating crustacean found in various marine environments. This crab, with its distinctive spiny legs, is a common sight in the intertidal zone, coral reefs, and other subtidal habitats.
Description & Characteristics
The Actaeodes tomentosus is characterized by its robust, reddish-brown carapace (shell) and its spiny legs, which give it its common name. The carapace can reach a maximum size of about 50 millimeters in width. These crabs are well-adapted to their rocky, intertidal habitats, using their sturdy legs for navigating the uneven terrain.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Spiny-legged Rock Crab is a versatile inhabitant of the marine environment. Its preferred habitats include coral reefs, the intertidal zone, and the subtidal zone. This crab is commonly found in the infralittoral zone, which spans the region from the lower limit of the intertidal zone to the shelf edge at approximately 200 meters water depth. This broad distribution highlights its ability to thrive in various depths and marine zones, including the neritic zone.
Taxonomy
The Spiny-legged Rock Crab, Actaeodes tomentosus, is classified within the animal kingdom, belonging to the phylum Arthropoda. This crab is further categorized under the Class Malacostraca, Order Decapoda, and Family Xanthidae, showcasing its evolutionary lineage and relationships within the broader crab family.
Feeding
The Spiny-legged Rock Crab, Actaeodes tomentosus, is an omnivore, with a diet consisting of a diverse range of food sources. Its feeding habits include consuming algae, carrion, and detritus, demonstrating its adaptability to various food sources within its environment.
Image References