Lophopanopeus bellus

Distinguished from similar-sized Glebocarcinus oregonensis by tubercles (rounded projections) on the chelipeds rather than spiny ridges. The rounded carapace with low tubercles and black claws are diagnostic. The variable coloration can make identification challenging; examination of cheliped structure is most reliable.

Marine intertidal and shallow subtidal zones along the Pacific coast. Specific substrate preferences not well documented in available sources.

Pacific coast of North America from Alaska to California. Two subspecies with partially overlapping ranges: L. b. bellus occurs from Resurrection Bay, Alaska to Cayucos, California; L. b. diegensis occurs from Monterey Bay to San Diego, California.

Breeding begins in April in the Puget Sound area. Eggs hatch from May onwards, with many females carrying a second brood that hatches in August.

• Loxothylacus panopaei - parasiteMany individuals are parasitized by this barnacle species

Breeding begins in April (Puget Sound area). Females carry eggs on the underside of the abdomen for protection. Eggs hatch from May onwards; many females produce a second brood hatching in August. After hatching, zoea larvae become free-living planktonic forms.

• Glebocarcinus oregonensisSimilar size and general appearance, but distinguished by spiny ridges on chelae rather than tubercles

• crustacean
• decapod
• marine
• intertidal
• parasitized by barnacle
• Pacific coast
• variable coloration

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• NCBI Taxonomy
• Catalogue of Life
• Bembicid Holdings | Entomology Research Museum
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