Hepatus epheliticus
(Linnaeus, 1763)
Dolly Varden Crab, calico crab, calico box crab, Gulf calico crab
Hepatus epheliticus is a small crab reaching 76 mm in width, distinguished by its distinctive red-spotted coloration. It inhabits shallow coastal waters of the western Atlantic Ocean from Chesapeake Bay to the Dominican Republic, including the entire Gulf of Mexico. The species is notable for its association with the sea anemone Calliactis tricolor, which it frequently carries on its carapace.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Hepatus epheliticus: //ˈhɛpətəs ˌɛfɪˈlɪtɪkəs//
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Identification
Distinguished from Ovalipes ocellatus (also called calico crab) by its box crab and more extensive red patterning. The combination of red spots with dark outlines on a relatively small, rounded is diagnostic. The frequent presence of the commensal sea anemone Calliactis tricolor on the carapace provides a secondary identifying feature in live specimens.
Images
Habitat
Sandy and muddy substrates in shallow marine waters. Depth range extends to 46 meters. Individuals frequently bury themselves in sediment with only exposed.
Distribution
Western Atlantic Ocean from Chesapeake Bay southward through the Gulf of Mexico to Jamaica and the Dominican Republic.
Seasonality
Reproductive activity occurs in summer, evidenced by -bearing females during this period.
Host Associations
- Calliactis tricolor - carries on commensal sea anemone
Life Cycle
Development includes five planktonic zoea stages before settlement. Females retain until hatching; no direct development observed.
Behavior
Burrowing : individuals lie buried in sand with only exposed. Commensalism: frequently carries sea anemone Calliactis tricolor on , though functional significance of this association is not documented in sources.
Human Relevance
Minor commercial and recreational interest under 'calico crab' and 'Dolly Varden crab'. Not a significant fishery . Potential for confusion with Ovalipes ocellatus in common .
Similar Taxa
- Ovalipes ocellatusShares 'calico crab'; distinguished by different (Portunidae), more oval shape, and ocellated (eyed) spots rather than red patches with dark outlines.
Misconceptions
The 'calico crab' is applied to both Hepatus epheliticus and Ovalipes ocellatus, causing potential identification confusion despite these belonging to different and having different distributions and morphologies.