Atergatis
Atergatis is a genus of marine crabs in the family Xanthidae. These crabs are commonly known as “puffer crabs” or “box crabs” due to their distinctive boxy carapace and ability to puff up their bodies when threatened.
Common Names
The crabs in the genus Atergatis are commonly known as:
- Puffer crabs
- Box crabs
Characteristics
Atergatis crabs possess a number of unique characteristics, including:
- Boxy carapace: The carapace is broad and flattened, giving the crab a box-like appearance.
- Ability to puff up: When threatened, these crabs can inflate their bodies with water, making themselves appear larger and more intimidating.
- Brightly colored: Many species exhibit vibrant colors and patterns on their carapaces, adding to their unique appearance.
- Nocturnal behavior: Most Atergatis crabs are nocturnal, meaning they are more active at night.
Environment
Atergatis crabs are typically found in tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. They inhabit a variety of environments, including:
- Coral reefs
- Seagrass meadows
- Rocky shores
References
For more detailed information on Atergatis crabs, please refer to the following reliable resources: