Ovalipes
Ovalipes is a genus of swimming crabs in the family Portunidae, commonly known as blue crabs. These crabs are found in various parts of the world, primarily in marine and brackish environments. Their distinguishing features include a flattened carapace, prominent eyes, and long, spiny legs.
Common Names
Members of the genus Ovalipes are often referred to as blue crabs, but their specific common names may vary depending on the species and location. Some examples include:
- Blue swimmer crab (Ovalipes ocellatus)
- Sand crab (Ovalipes trimaculatus)
Characteristics
Ovalipes crabs exhibit several notable characteristics:
- Flattened carapace: Their carapace is generally broad and flattened, allowing them to move efficiently through water.
- Prominent eyes: They possess large, prominent eyes on stalks, providing excellent vision.
- Long, spiny legs: The legs are long and spiny, particularly the last pair of legs, which are adapted for swimming.
- Sharp, pointed claws: They have sharp, pointed claws that are used for feeding and defense.
- Variable coloration: Ovalipes crabs can exhibit a range of colors, from blue and green to brown and red.
Environments
Ovalipes crabs are primarily found in marine and brackish environments, such as:
- Coastal estuaries
- Sandy beaches
- Seagrass meadows
- Mudflats
They are generally found in shallow waters, often burrowing in the substrate or hiding among vegetation.
References
For more detailed information on Ovalipes crabs, consult these reliable references: