Life on the Lower Shore

Small specimens of edible crab are found close inshore, usually wedged tightly into the back of small caves and crevices, from which they are extremely difficult to extricate. Very small edible crabs tend to have a lot of white in their shell, rather that the usual brick-red. Offshore, the adult crabs can grow to an impressive size.

The tiny, flattened broad-clawed porcelain crab is almost dwarfed by its oversize claws, making it quite unmistakable. It clings tightly to the underside of rocks and overhangs (and to fingers), where it makes a living in a most uncrab-like fashion - bristly mouthparts allow it to strain food from the water, much in the same way as a barnacle uses its legs. Its impressive claws are pretty much for show. Its shell is covered in fine hairs which tend to trap a layer of silt.

Hairiness is a common trait in crabs, particularly on the legs, but the small, chunky hairy crab is especially deserving of the name. It can be confused with a small edible crab, but the hairs and spines on its back and its banded legs should help identify it.

Last but definitely not least, the velvet swimming crab is one to watch out for. Its bright red eyes betray its fiery temper - it is incredible quick and agile and quite prepared to take on anybody. Unless you're very sure about handling crabs, it's best to give this one a wide berth.