Galathea
Galathea is a genus of marine decapod crustaceans belonging to the family Galatheidae, commonly known as squat lobsters. These crustaceans are characterized by their distinctive squat bodies, with a short, broad carapace and a pair of prominent, elongated antennae. They are found in a variety of marine habitats, from shallow coastal waters to the deep sea, across the globe. The genus encompasses over 100 species, exhibiting a wide range of morphologies and color patterns.
Common Names
Members of the genus Galathea are commonly referred to as "squat lobsters" or "deep-sea lobsters," due to their characteristic body shape and frequent occurrence in deep-sea environments. Some species may have specific common names depending on their geographic location or distinct features.
Characteristics
Galathea species share several key characteristics:
- Body shape: They have a distinctive squat body with a short, broad carapace, giving them their common name.
- Antennae: Their most prominent feature is a pair of long, slender antennae that extend well beyond the body.
- Legs: They have ten legs, with the first pair modified into chelipeds (claws) and the remaining eight used for walking and feeding.
- Coloration: Galathea species exhibit a diverse range of colors, from pale yellows and browns to bright reds and oranges.
- Size: They vary in size, with some species reaching lengths of over 10 cm.
Environments
Galathea species are found in a wide variety of marine habitats:
- Shallow coastal waters: Some species inhabit rocky shores, tide pools, and seagrass beds.
- Deep sea: Many species are found in deep-sea environments, from the continental shelf to the abyssal plain.
- Tropical and temperate waters: Galathea species are distributed across the globe, with a greater diversity in tropical and temperate regions.