Lithodidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lithodidae: /lɪˈθɒdɪˌdiː/

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Summary

The family Lithodidae, commonly known as king crabs, includes decapod crustaceans evolved from hermit crab ancestors. They are crucial for various marine ecosystems and hold significant economic value as seafood.

Physical Characteristics

King crabs are characterized by their large size, with notable species such as the red king crab reaching a carapace width of 11 inches (28 cm) and a leg span of 6 feet (1.8 m). They have an asymmetrical body shape, a feature inherited from their hermit crab ancestors.

Identification Tips

Key identification features include a large, broad carapace, long legs, and asymmetrical abdomen, especially in relation to their close hermit crab relatives.

Habitat

King crabs are primarily found in cold seas, preferring shallow muddy or sandy habitats, as in the case of red king crabs, or deeper areas with cobble or gravel, as seen with blue king crabs.

Distribution

King crabs inhabit regions of the Bering Sea around the Kamchatka Peninsula, extending to the Barents Sea and the North Sea due to introductions. Their natural habitats include areas off Alaska, Japan, and Russia.

Diet

King crabs are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of marine organisms including mollusks, fish, and detritus.

Life Cycle

King crabs have a complex life cycle that includes planktotrophic larvae and distinct zoeal stages, followed by a glaucothoe stage that seeks suitable habitats on the sea floor.

Reproduction

The red king crab has an 11-month brood cycle in its first reproductive year, transitioning to a 12-month cycle thereafter. Reproduction is seasonal and involves external fertilization.

Predators

Juvenile king crabs are preyed upon by various marine animals, but adult king crabs have fewer natural predators due to their size.

Ecosystem Role

King crabs play a significant role in marine ecosystems as scavengers and predators, contributing to the balance of benthic communities.

Economic Impact

King crabs, particularly red and blue species, are significant to commercial fisheries, particularly in Alaska, where they constitute important seafood resources.

Collecting Methods

• Traps
• Dredging

Preservation Methods

• Freezing
• Canning

Evolution

King crabs are thought to be derived from hermit crab ancestors, showing features of carcinisation, which is the evolution of crab-like characteristics in various decapod lineages.

Similar Taxa

• Hermit crabs (Paguridae)
• Other decapod crustaceans

Misconceptions

King crabs are often mistaken for true crabs, but they are not classified as such and are closely related to hermit crabs.

Tags

• Crustaceans
• Decapods
• Lithodidae
• King Crabs