© Bernard PictonCC BY 4.0 · iNaturalist
Atlantic Spinous Spider Crab
Maja brachydactyla
Cryptic Teardrop Crab
Pelia mutica
- Max size
- View in app
- Max depth
- 51 m
- Found in
- 38 regions
How to recognise it
- Colours
- whiteyelloworangepurplered
- Pattern
- Tubercles pattern, Banded pattern
Pelia mutica is a species of decapod crustaceans, Kelp Crabs (Epialtidae family) found in the North and South Atlantic Oceans.
Description
It is the decorator crabs, which means that they camouflage themselves using bits of sponge or algae. The legs are flattened. The color is red to purple with darker spots. Size: carapace up to 2 cm wide.
Distribution
Western Atlantic Ocean.
Habitat and biology
It is found on reefs at depth from 5 m down to 51 m. Epibiotic, found on molluscan and other shells. Members of the order Decapoda are mostly gonochoric. Mating behavior: Precopulatory courtship ritual is common (through olfactory and tactile cues); usually indirect sperm transfer.
Similar species
© Bernard PictonCC BY 4.0 · iNaturalist 
Bull Hydroid Crab
Naxioides taurus
© Julien RenoultCC BY 4.0 · iNaturalist
Cave Spider Crab
Herbstia condyliata
© Robin WhiteCC BY 4.0 · iNaturalist
Channel Clinging Crab
Mithrax spinosissimus
© Dan SchofieldCC BY 4.0
Corallimorph Decorator Crab
Cyclocoeloma tuberculata
© Kai SquiresCC BY 4.0 · iNaturalist
Depressed Spider Crab
Xenocarcinus depressus
Questions
Is Cryptic Teardrop Crab dangerous?
Cryptic Teardrop Crab has no known danger to humans. However, always observe marine life responsibly.
Where can you find Cryptic Teardrop Crab?
How deep does Cryptic Teardrop Crab live?
Cryptic Teardrop Crab can be found at depths of up to 51 meters.
