Calappa hepatica (Reef box crab)

Identification

Shades of brown, large rounded tubercles cover the carapace and claws providing a rough texture, elongate eyes on stalks.

Status

Fairly common, but often well hidden in the sand.

Habitat

Red Sea, the Indian Ocean and Pacifc. Found on rubble and sand bottoms to a depth of 100 meters.

Reproduction

Size

Carapace is up to 10cm

Prey / Predation

It is said to prey on other crabs.

Special features

It can bury itself in the sand within seconds.