General Description

Colossendeis tasmanica is a large sea spider with a leg span of up to 55 cm.

Biology

Members of the genus Colossendeis are characterized by their often large size with specimens having a leg span of 30-50 cm being commonly represented in deep-sea collections around our coastline. The largest specimen recorded in the genus has a leg span of 74 cm. Colossendeis are efficient swimmers and by treading water they can lift themselves up into the water column where, with legs out-stretched, they can be carried over vast distances by the slow-moving currents found at these depths. Despite their frequent collection specimens have never been recorded carrying eggs so their life history remains a mystery. They are most often associated with sea anemones on which they have been observed feeding. Their vertical distribution in possibly limited by water temperature and pressure and they no doubt rely on the stable conditions of the deep sea in order to survive.

Distribution

Possibly worldwide, known from south eastern coast of Australia and Portugal.

More Information