Soft Coral Spider Crab

Achaeus spinosus is a small decapod which belongs to the large family of the Inachidae or the spider crabs.

Description

The Achaeus spinosus carapace has an oval shape and does not exceed 4 centimetres in length. This crab possesses long fine clawless legs, except the front pair which is smaller and bears chelae (pincers). The pedunculate eyes are red. The whole whitish body is thickly covered with fine hairs which help to fix some pieces of sponge or fixed hydroids for camouflage.

Distribution

Achaeus spinosus can be observed in the tropical waters of the Indo-west Pacific area, including the Red Sea.

Habitat

Achaeus spinosus usually lives in association with some species of soft coral or sponge. It feeds on plankton and suspended particles which it catches by climbing on the host with whom it's in association to expose itself to the current. It is often observed on its living support. This crab is active at night.