Species Type:
Invertebrates
Common Name(s):
Caribbean king crab
Size:
The carapace, or shell, of a Caribbean king crab is around 5.4 inches (136 millimeters) for males and 4.7 inches (120 millimeters) for females. They can weigh up to 6 pounds (3 Kilograms).
Diet:
Masters at foraging, Caribbean king crabs are herbivorous and eat the algae growing on coral reefs. This is beneficial to the reef because it'll keep the algae from preventing coral growth and throwing off the bacterial make up of the community.
Range & Habitat:
Caves and shallow reef communities in the Caribbean and parts of the Atlantic Ocean.
Details:
Caribbean king crabs are highly adaptable, commonly found in warm tropical and subtropical waters, particularly around coral reefs. They are known for their spiny appearance and their role in coral reef ecosystems. These crabs help coral reef communities by consuming algae, which can otherwise overwhelm coral and contribute to environmental stressors.