Emerita

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Emerita: /ɛˈmɛɹɪtə/

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Summary

Emerita is a genus of small decapod crustaceans known as mole crabs, characterized by their burrowing behavior and distribution in tropical and subtropical regions, with significant ecological and economic roles.

Physical Characteristics

Barrel-shaped body, tough exoskeleton; can hold appendages close to the body.

Identification Tips

Males are typically smaller than females; females 8–37 mm in carapace length, males vary from similar size to females down to 2.5 mm carapace length.

Habitat

Burrowed in sand in the swash zone of beaches.

Distribution

Broad distribution in tropical and subtropical regions, common along both coasts of the United States and the Atlantic coast of Africa.

Diet

Filter feeds on plankton and detritus using feathery antennae.

Life Cycle

Short lifespan of 2 to 3 years; larvae can live as plankton for over four months.

Reproduction

Reproduces in its first year; has bright orange eggs.

Predators

Fish (e.g., barred surfperch), seabirds.

Ecosystem Role

Important food source for fish and scavengers.

Economic Impact

Used as bait by surf fishermen; eaten in some cultures, especially in Thailand and Malaysia.

Cultural Significance

Popular snack in Thailand; local delicacy known as yat yat in Malaysia.

Health Concerns

Risk of paralytic shellfish poisoning and infections with Profilicollis parasites when consumed.

Collecting Methods

• Hand collection on beaches

Preservation Methods

• Freezing
• Drying

Evolution

Molecular phylogenetics has shown that some species relationships differ from traditional views; E. analoga is more closely related to African species than to other New World species.

Similar Taxa

• Hippa

Misconceptions

Often confused with other crab species; specific relationships among species vary.

Tags

• crustaceans
• mole crabs
• filter feeders