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EXPLORE > ANIMALS > INVERTEBRATES
Macrocheira kaemferi
As the name may suggest, the Japanese spider crab lives at the western end of the Pacific Ocean.
Stunning crustaceans in both color and size, the carapace of the spider crab can measure up to 15 inches (38 cm) across and they can weigh as much as 44 lbs. (19.9 kg). From the tip of one outstretched claw to another, this animal can measure 13 feet across (3.96 m).
These animals attach sponges and similar animals to their shells to ward off predators, such as octopuses. They use their powerful claws to crush shellfish and strip animal carcasses. Spider crabs are also an extremely long-lived species, with some known to be in excess of one hundred years old.
Range and Habitat
Spider crabs live along the ocean bottom from 150 to 600 feet in depth. They are primarily found off the coast of Japan.
Conservation Status
Common.
Related Features: Youth Activities: Crabbing
Macrocheira kaemferi
As the name may suggest, the Japanese spider crab lives at the western end of the Pacific Ocean.
Stunning crustaceans in both color and size, the carapace of the spider crab can measure up to 15 inches (38 cm) across and they can weigh as much as 44 lbs. (19.9 kg). From the tip of one outstretched claw to another, this animal can measure 13 feet across (3.96 m).
These animals attach sponges and similar animals to their shells to ward off predators, such as octopuses. They use their powerful claws to crush shellfish and strip animal carcasses. Spider crabs are also an extremely long-lived species, with some known to be in excess of one hundred years old.
Range and Habitat
Spider crabs live along the ocean bottom from 150 to 600 feet in depth. They are primarily found off the coast of Japan.
Conservation Status
Common.
Related Features: Youth Activities: Crabbing
