General Description

Carapace flat and shiny, wide at the back and narrower toward the front. Claws are flattened and extend out in front of the body. Rear legs smaller than others. Mouth surrounded by hairy feeding limbs. Up to 2 cm long (carapace).

Biology

Spiny Porcelain Crabs are active, aggressive animals, but they are probably filter feeders. Their long antennae and small fifth legs distinguish them from true crabs.

Distribution

Southern Australia.

Habitat

Intertidal areas under large stones on exposed coasts, to depth of 25 m.

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