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Achaeopsis
Species of crab
Species of crab
Achaeopsis spinulosa, the hotlips spider crab, is a species of crab in the family Inachidae, found only around the South African coast. It is the only species in the genus Achaeopsis.
Distribution
The crab is found from False Bay to Durban, subtidally to 43 m. It is endemic to this region.
Description
Achaeopsis spinulosa is commonly known as the hotlips spider crab because of the vivid red marking around its mouth. It is a small spider crab with relatively long, but quite sturdy legs. It may grow to 70 mm across. Its carapace is rounded, tapering to a blunt tip. Its pincers are raggedly striped in white and red.
Ecology
The crab decorates its body with sponges, hydroids, or algae, improving its camouflage. It is rarely seen without some form of decoration. It is often found among striped anemones and on sea fans.
References
References
- (2008). "Systema Brachyurorum: Part I. An annotated checklist of extant Brachyuran crabs of the world". [[Raffles Bulletin of Zoology]].
- (2010). "Two Oceans: a Guide to the Marine Life of Southern Africa". Struik Nature.
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