Picture Of The Biggest Crab In The World
When it comes to big, creepy, crawly creatures, crabs are definitely high on the list. With their sharp claws and armored exoskeletons, these sea dwellers can be intimidating yet fascinating at the same time. And if you're a fan of these creatures, you might be interested to know that the biggest crab in the world is the Japanese Spider Crab.
What is the Japanese Spider Crab?
The Japanese Spider Crab (Macrocheira kaempferi) is a species of crab that can be found in the waters surrounding Japan. It is also known as the Tasmanian King Crab, although it is not found in Australian waters. This crab is a type of arthropod, which means it has a hard exoskeleton and jointed limbs.
Japanese Spider Crabs can grow up to 12 feet from claw to claw, making them the biggest crab in the world. They can also weigh up to 44 pounds, which is about the weight of a small child. Their long, thin legs are covered in spiky hair and their eyes are perched on stalks that can rotate 360 degrees.
Why are they called Spider Crabs?
The Japanese Spider Crab earns its name thanks to its long, spindly legs that resemble those of a spider. These legs help the crab navigate the ocean floor and catch prey, which typically includes small fish and other crustaceans. The crab's sharp claws are also used for defense against predators and for cracking open shells.
Where can you find the Japanese Spider Crab?
As mentioned earlier, the Japanese Spider Crab can be found in the waters surrounding Japan. Specifically, they are often found in the Sagami Bay and Suruga Bay areas. These crabs prefer to live at depths of around 200-300 meters, which can make them difficult to spot. However, some aquariums around the world have been able to successfully house Japanese Spider Crabs for visitors to see up close.
What is the lifespan of a Japanese Spider Crab?
The Japanese Spider Crab has a lifespan of around 100 years, which is incredibly long compared to other types of crabs. This is due to their slow growth rate, with some crabs taking up to a decade to reach maturity. However, despite their long lifespan, Japanese Spider Crabs are still considered vulnerable due to overfishing and habitat destruction.
Conclusion
Overall, the Japanese Spider Crab is a fascinating and impressive creature. Its large size, spindly legs, and long lifespan make it a unique addition to the world of crabs. While they may not be the easiest creatures to spot in the wild, they are still worth admiring for their remarkable features.
