Category: Crabs and Shrimp view all from this category

Description 3 1/8" (79 mm) wide, 2 1/2" (64 mm) long. Fan-shaped. Carapace yellowish-gray, with closely set rings of reddish-purple spots, metallic iridescence; pincers light brown, with bluish tips and purple spots on top. Carapace slightly wider than long; convex, granular; with 3 sharp teeth between eye sockets, 5 strong teeth directed forward from eye socket to widest part. Pincers large, sharp; finger 1/2 length of hand; joint next to hand with spine on inner and outer side; 5th pair of walking legs paddlelike.

Warning This handsome crab is known for its aggressive disposition and sharp pincers. It must be handled with great caution.

Habitat On sand, rock, or mud bottoms; from low-tide line to water 130' (40 m) deep.

Range Common from Cape Cod to South Carolina; populations on Prince Edward Island and elsewhere in Maritimes.