Crabs of Christmas Island

Coloration varies through its range but on Christmas Island the crab has an overall greyish white appearance with chestnut brownish splotches. The upper surfaces and legs are covered with mottled brown/black patterning. Under surface is greyish white. Long flattened legs. The end section of the walking legs are stout and have spines.

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Active at night and seldom seen during daylight. Very shy, disappearing instantly into underwater crevices at the slightest sign of danger. It is a scavenger and also eats seaweeds.