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Project Noah Nature School
Xenocarcinus tuberculatus
Also known as Tuberculate Spider Crab and Xeno Crab, this crustacean mimics its host, the black or whip coral. The coloration of its elongated body and appendages matches that of the coral's. Also, it can even induce the host's polyps to "grow" from its carapace, thereby adding to its masterful camouflage.
Typically found on whip coral (Cirrhipathes sp.), in the Indo-Pacific region.
This crazy-looking xeno crab was on a whip coral at around 16m depth, just sitting there letting us take photos of it. Dive site: East Point, Bgy. Tagpopongan, Samal Island, Philippines.
Spotted on May 1, 2012
Submitted on May 1, 2012
11 Comments
Thanks, Jolly!
Nice one Blogie. Very beautiful
In the Philippines, back in high school.
Oh, interesting. Did you learn it in the Philippines or somewhere else?
Kathrin - No, not really. I studied it in high school, but it didn't stick. :")
Do you speak German? :-)
Danke schön, Kathrin! :)
Super photo!
Incredible!!!
Thank you, harsuame, Argybee and Marta!
Grandioso