Lithodidae

The Lithodidae are a family of decapod crustaceans commonly known as king crabs or stone crabs. These are large, predominantly benthic, marine crustaceans that are found in cold, deep waters, particularly in the North Pacific, North Atlantic, and Southern Oceans. The family is divided into three subfamilies: Lithodinae, Hapalogastrinae, and Lopholithodinae. They are characterized by their distinctive flattened bodies, powerful claws, and elongated, spiny legs. Lithodids are scavengers and predators, feeding on a variety of organisms such as mollusks, echinoderms, and fish.

Paralithodes brevipes

Paralithodes californiensis

Paralithodes platypus

Hapalogaster dentata

Common Names

Lithodids are known by several common names, including:

  • King crabs
  • Stone crabs
  • Spider crabs (in some regions)

Characteristics

Members of the Lithodidae family share several distinguishing characteristics, including:

  • Flattened, crab-like carapace: The carapace is broad and flattened, giving them a distinct appearance.
  • Powerful, pincer-like claws: They possess a large, dominant pair of claws that are used for feeding and defense.
  • Elongated, spiny legs: Their legs are long and spiny, adapted for walking and grasping prey.
  • Abdomen tucked beneath the carapace: Unlike true crabs, the abdomen is not visible, being folded under the carapace.
  • Anomuran morphology: Lithodids are anomurans, a group of decapods with an asymmetrical abdomen that is not fully enclosed in a carapace.

Environments

Lithodidae are generally found in cold, deep waters, typically at depths of 200-1000 meters. They are most commonly found in the North Pacific, North Atlantic, and Southern Oceans. They inhabit a variety of habitats, including:

  • Continental shelves: Lithodids are found on the outer continental shelves, where they can take advantage of diverse prey and suitable substrate.
  • Deep-sea canyons: Some species live in deep-sea canyons, often in association with cold seeps or hydrothermal vents.
  • Sea mounts: These underwater mountains provide suitable habitat for some species.

References

For further information, you can refer to the following online resources: