Ovalipidae
Ovalipidae is a family of marine crabs, consisting of two genera and approximately 30 described species. They are found in the Indo-Pacific region, with most species occurring in the tropics. The family is characterized by a distinctive oval-shaped carapace, which gives them their name. Ovalipids are generally small crabs, with most species reaching a maximum size of 5-10 centimeters in width. They are typically found in shallow water habitats, often in association with coral reefs.
Common Names
Ovalipids are commonly known as "oval crabs" or "oval-shaped crabs".
Characteristics
Ovalipid crabs share several key characteristics:
- Oval-shaped carapace: This is the most distinctive feature of the family, giving them their common name.
- Small size: Most species are relatively small, typically reaching a maximum width of 5-10 centimeters.
- Smooth carapace: The carapace is usually smooth and lacks prominent spines or tubercles.
- Short legs: Ovalipid crabs have short legs compared to other crab families.
- Eyes on stalks: Like most crabs, they possess eyes on movable stalks.
Environments
Ovalipid crabs are primarily found in shallow water habitats in the Indo-Pacific region. They often inhabit coral reefs, rocky shores, and seagrass meadows. Some species may also be found in mangrove forests.
References
For more detailed information about Ovalipidae, you can consult the following resources: