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Leptograpsus variegatus
Aka purple rock crab, large shore crab, papaka nui. Carapace has broadly rounded edges, the legs long and flattened which it uses like paddles, claws purple above and white below. Up to 80 mm across, but usually smaller. Very fast and difficult to catch, and can be quite aggressive when cornered - take my word for it, the nippers are strong. Scavenger and omnivore, feeding on both animal (flea mussels, barnacles, etc.) and plant matter (seaweeds, plankton slime). It is the only species in the genus Leptograpsus.
Crevices and ocean rock pools at North Avoca Beach, on the NSW Central Coast.
The surf was really pounding the rocks today which they seem to relish, but I couldn't get too close to the edge where most were. They cling to the rocks far better than I do.
Spotted on Jul 27, 2013
Submitted on Aug 11, 2013
7 Comments
Thanks, Christiane. I would never have guessed crabs were arthropods. We learn something new every day. Cheers :-)
MOVED TO ARTHROPODS.. :) GREAT SHOTS!
great shot
Thanks, Frederic. The policy is something I learned the hard way.
Excellent shot and colors.
Your policy is right for many species!
They're nice crabs... with very powerful claws. Had a couple latch on. Look but don't touch seems to be the best policy :-)
Nice photos. Very cute crab.