Great spider crab and bryozoa
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Great spider crab and bryozoa
Great spider crab and bryozoa. Great spider crab (Hyas araneus) carrying a bryozoan colony. This crab lives at a depth of 500-2000 metres in Atlantic waters and the North Sea. The carapace (shell) of this specimen measures 3cm wide. Bryozoa are coral-like animals that live in colonies on the sea floor. These crabs are very skilled at disguising themselves. They pick up bryozoan colonies (shown here) and let them grow on their carapace, hiding the crab from predators
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Media ID 9223445
© GILLES MERMET/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Animal Behaviour Arthropod Arthropods Atlantic Ocean Attached Bryozoa Bryozoan Calcium Carbonate Camouflage Camouflaged Camouflaging Carapace Carcinology Chela Chelae Claw Claws Colony Commensal Commensalism Crab Crustacea Crustacean Crustaceans Decapod Decapods Disguised Exoskeleton From Above Legs Mediterranean Sea North Sea Pincer Pincers Top View Upper Side Adriatic Cutouts Disguising Epialtidae Hyas Araneus
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the incredible camouflage skills of the Great spider crab (Hyas araneus) and its unique relationship with bryozoa colonies. Captured against a black background, this European marine creature is seen carrying a bryozoan colony on its carapace, measuring 3cm wide. Living at depths ranging from 500 to 2000 meters in Atlantic waters and the North Sea, these crabs have mastered the art of disguise. By allowing bryozoans to grow on their shells, they effectively conceal themselves from potential predators. Bryozoa are coral-like animals that form colonies on the sea floor. The image provides an intimate glimpse into the intricate biology and anatomy of this fascinating crustacean. From above, we can observe its single leg and pincer as it carries the bryozoan colony securely attached to its exoskeleton. The upper side reveals how well-camouflaged these creatures become when adorned with calcium carbonate structures. This photograph not only highlights the beauty of nature but also sheds light on animal behavior in marine ecosystems. It serves as a reminder of how diverse and remarkable our planet's wildlife truly is. Whether for scientific study or personal appreciation, this stunning print offers a window into the hidden world beneath our oceans' surface
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