The Spotted Rock Crab, Spotted Belly Crab, scientifically known as Ozius guttatus, is a species of crab found in various marine environments across the Indo-Pacific region. This crab is recognized for its distinctive markings and its adaptability to diverse habitats.
Description & Characteristics
Ozius guttatus, commonly called the Spotted Rock Crab or Spotted Belly Crab, is a medium-sized crab with a carapace (shell) that can reach up to 7.5 cm in width. The carapace is typically brown or reddish-brown in color, and it is covered in numerous white or cream-colored spots, giving it its characteristic appearance. The crab’s underside, or belly, also features these prominent spots, hence its alternative name. The legs of Ozius guttatus are relatively long and slender, with the claws (chelipeds) being particularly robust.
Habitat and Occurrence
Ozius guttatus is a remarkably adaptable species, inhabiting a wide range of marine environments. It can be found in coral reefs, intertidal zones, tidal zones, mangrove zones, muddy grounds, reef slopes, rocky shores, rock coasts, rubble floors, and even tide pools. This versatility allows the crab to thrive in various depths, from the intertidal zone to the sublittoral zone, which extends to the shelf edge at around 200 meters. The species is classified as a neritic crab, meaning it is found in the shallow, sunlit waters of the continental shelf.
Taxonomy
The species Ozius guttatus belongs to the Class: Malacostraca, Order: Decapoda, and Family: Oziidae. This classification places it within the broad group of crustaceans, specifically within the decapod order, which encompasses crabs, lobsters, and shrimp. The family Oziidae comprises a diverse group of crabs characterized by their flattened bodies and often brightly colored carapaces.
Distribution and Occurrence
The Spotted Rock Crab, Spotted Belly Crab (Ozius guttatus) is widely distributed throughout the Indo-Pacific region. Its occurrence is documented in countries such as Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Japan. Its presence in these areas is attributed to its adaptability to a variety of marine environments, ranging from the intertidal zone to the sublittoral zone. Ozius guttatus, being a neritic crab, thrives in the shallow, sunlit waters of the continental shelf.
Feeding
Ozius guttatus is a carnivorous crab with a diet primarily consisting of other invertebrates. Its preferred prey includes clams, crustaceans like other crabs and shrimps, and snails. The crab uses its powerful claws to break open shells and extract the soft tissues within.
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