Lady Crab
Ovalipes ocellatus
The lady crab is a sandy-shore swimming crab found along the Atlantic coast of North America, often in surf zones and shallow coastal waters. It buries itself quickly in loose sand with only the eyes exposed, then rushes out to seize small clams, worms, fish, and other invertebrates. Its flattened rear legs act like paddles, making it a strong swimmer compared with many shore crabs. The oval carapace is patterned with reddish-purple spots, giving the species its distinctive “ocellated” look.
- Type
- Shell
- Conservation status
- NE
Growth chain
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- Lady Crab