Smoothshell Crab

Smoothshell crabs are a species of crustacean that exist in the estuaries of Greenerth. They are a coastal species and are most common along the coastal outskirts of the Sarabar Swamp.

Anatomy

Like most crabs, smoothshell crabs have five sets of legs in a circular position, allowing for ample scuttling along the seabed, shores, and murky swamp waters. The chitin is significantly smoother and softer than other crustacean species, and is a bright crimson colour. This colour deters predators as it deceives them into thinking the crab is poisonous. They have two long antennas used to sense surroundings. Their claws are small but powerful, used to crack barnacles and invertebrates, eating the insides.

Sexual Dimorphism

Female smoothshell crabs are wider than males, allowing them to easier carry eggs on their backs. Females of this species also possess a large crushing claw, which they most commonly use to scare off other males during nesting season.

Reproduction

Female smoothshell crabs carry millions of miniscule eggs on their backs, which remain there until they hatch. The crabs will seek out small shelters, particularly in enclosed burrows below mackerel trees. The females will not leave their nest until all of the babies have fully grown, or at least grown to a point where they can defend themselves from predators.

In some rare cases, casts of smoothshell crabs can be seen releasing their eggs into the ocean. This usually happens when the crabs are in an environment without any naturally occurring burrows, as the crabs do not dig their own. The eggs are released so they have the best chance at survival, since females would not be capable of defending herself and her eggs from predators without a burrow to hide in.

Diet

Smoothshell crabs are typically scavengers, crawling along the waterbeds in search of dead animals to eat. If they cannot find any, then they will hunt for their food, but typically prey on small fish and crustaceans that live on the seabed. In some cases, smoothshell crabs will fight their natural predators and eat them if they win, but this is rarely ever seen.

Habitat

Smoothshell crabs can only survive in saltwater conditions, and are most commonly found in the Sarabar Swamp and its neighbouring coasts. They can be seen yearly in casts of millions along the coasts of Tropacia and Southland, where they migrate for the winter where it is warmer.

Lifespan

20 years

Average Length

2 feet

Geographic Distribution

• Aekor
• Greenerth
• Mirror Forest
• Sarabar Swamp
• Tropics

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