Project Description

Montagu’s Crab

Scientific name: Xantho hydrophilus
Size: Up to 7cm across the shell
Colour: Brown with black tipped claws
Habitat: Rocky shores, under rocks or in rockpools
Facts:

  • Sometimes known as the furrowed crab.
  • They have large claws – they look like the bodybuilders of the crab world!
  • They are sometimes mottled with white, making them look like marble.
  • Liable to fight with other animals if placed in a bucket with them.
  • Similar to the Risso’s Crab, but can be identified by the more obvious grooves on the back of its shell and less hairy legs.

Photo credit: Paul Naylor
www.marinephoto.co.uk