Burrowing Shore Crab

Leptograpsodes octodentatus

Leptograpsodes octodentatus - Burrowing Shore Crab
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image_search Terms and anatomy

Size: 6 cm

Distribution: All SA coastal and gulf waters

Habitat: Exposed rocky shores

Depth: Upper to mid intertidal

This crab is usually most active at night, but can occasionally be found on rocky shores during the daytime. It is tan in colour, with dark patches on its back. It has a single notch on each side of its carapace, towards the front. It is difficult to distinguish from other grapsid crabs, but with experience, it can be identified by a combination of colour, habitat and carapace shape.