Ebalia
Ebalia is a genus of crabs in the family Leucosiidae. These crabs are commonly referred to as “box crabs” due to their distinctive box-shaped carapace. They are known for their small size, with most species reaching a maximum carapace width of just a few centimeters. Ebalia crabs are found in various marine environments worldwide, including rocky shores, sandy bottoms, and seagrass meadows.
Characteristics
Ebalia crabs exhibit several distinguishing features:
- Box-shaped carapace: This characteristic gives them the name "box crabs."
- Small size: Most species are under 3 cm in carapace width.
- Smooth, glossy carapace: This surface is often covered in short hairs.
- Short, stout legs: These legs are adapted for burrowing and crawling.
- Small eyes: These are often positioned on stalks.
- Well-developed chelipeds: These are the crab's claws and are used for feeding and defense.
Environments
Ebalia crabs are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Rocky shores: They can be found living amongst rocks and crevices.
- Sandy bottoms: They often bury themselves in the sediment.
- Seagrass meadows: They may reside among the seagrass roots and blades.
Species
The genus Ebalia contains several recognized species. Some of the most common include:
- Ebalia tuberosa: This species is widespread in the Mediterranean Sea.
- Ebalia desmarestii: This species is common in the North Atlantic Ocean.
- Ebalia granulosa: This species is found in the Indo-Pacific region.
References
For further information on Ebalia crabs, consult the following resources: