Mole Crabs
Hippidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Crustacea
- Class: Malacostraca
- Superorder: Eucarida
- Order: Decapoda
- Infraorder: Anomura
- Superfamily: Hippoidea
- Family: Hippidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Hippidae: //ˈhɪpɪdiː//
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Images
Summary
Hippidae, commonly known as mole or sand crabs, are specialized crustaceans found in sandy coastal habitats. They play a crucial role in their ecosystems and are recognized for their characteristic shape and burrowing behavior.
Physical Characteristics
Mole crabs are characterized by their oval, flattened bodies, which enable them to burrow efficiently in sandy substrates. They possess flippers adapted for swimming and moving in the sand.
Identification Tips
Look for their distinctive oval shape and closely spaced eyes. They typically have a smooth exoskeleton and are often covered with sand grains, camouflaging them against predators.
Habitat
Mole crabs inhabit sandy beaches, typically at the swash zone where sand is regularly disturbed by waves.
Distribution
Hippidae are found worldwide in sandy coastal environments, except in the Arctic and Antarctic regions.
Diet
They primarily feed on plankton, detritus, and organic particles that they filter from the water and sediment.
Life Cycle
The life cycle includes a larval stage, with eggs being carried by females until hatching.
Reproduction
Hippidae reproduce through external fertilization, with female sand crabs brooding the eggs.
Predators
Their predators include various fish species, shorebirds, and other beach-associated animals.
Ecosystem Role
Mole crabs contribute to the coastal ecosystem by serving as prey for various predators and playing a role in sediment turnover and nutrient cycling.
Economic Impact
They can be significant as bait for fishing and are also part of the marine food web.
Cultural Significance
In some cultures, mole crabs are used in traditional fishing practices and as bait for larger sport fish.
Collecting Methods
- Hand collection during low tide
- Netting during surf conditions
Preservation Methods
- Freezing
- Drying
Evolution
Hippidae are believed to have evolved from ancient decapod ancestors and have adapted to specialized beach habitats.
Similar Taxa
- Albuneidae
- Emerita
- Hippa
- Mastigochirus
Misconceptions
Mole crabs are sometimes confused with true crabs, but they are more closely related to shrimp and lobsters.
Tags
- crustaceans
- beach ecology
- marine biology
- Hippidae