Ever heard of a crab that’s more about high fashion than high sea drama? Meet the porcelain crab, the ocean’s equivalent of a delicate porcelain vase. With their sleek, glossy shells and refined lifestyle, these crabs are like the aristocrabs of the crustacean world.
A Dapper Appearance
Porcelain crabs (family Porcellanidae) are the James Bonds of the underwater realm. Imagine a crab with a smooth, shiny shell that looks like it’s been polished for a gala event. That’s the porcelain crab for you. Their shell is typically white or pale, sometimes with a few elegant patterns. They’re the epitome of crustacean chic—always dressed to impress!
These crabs are not your average rock-climbers. They’re flat and fluffy, a bit like they’re wearing a fuzzy, fashionable coat. This adaptation helps them blend seamlessly into the narrow crevices between intertidal rocks. It’s like they’re sporting a camouflage outfit that’s as stylish as it is practical.
Evolution with a Twist
Carcinisation is a strange phenomenon in our seas and oceans. It’s like every creature has a secret desire to look, act, and be a crab. Crabs are the ultimate trendsetters and celebrities of the sea—everyone wants to be a crab! From squat lobsters to certain shrimp, the crab look is all the rage.
Picture a squat lobster donning a crab costume—that’s essentially what happened with porcelain crabs millions of years ago. They’ve been rocking this look since the late Jurassic epoch, about 145–152 million years ago. That's some prehistoric trendsetting right for you right there!
Many other crustaceans follow this trend. Take, for instance, the squat lobster, a relative of the porcelain crab. These critters aren’t crabs, but they’ve decided to evolve into crab-like forms. It’s like they saw a crab and thought, “That’s the look I’m going for!” Another great example is the king crab, which started out with a more lobster-like appearance but eventually embraced the crab lifestyle.
Even some shrimp have hopped on the crab bandwagon. The peacock mantis shrimp, with its vibrant colors and formidable claws, has a crab-like flair in its movements and structure, even if it hasn’t fully committed to the crab aesthetic.
How to Spot a Porcelain Crab
Spotting a porcelain crab can be like finding a needle in a haystack, only the needle is a tiny, flattened crab. Unlike true crabs, porcelain crabs have just three pairs of walking legs and long, filamentous antennae. If you’re counting legs, remember: if it has three pairs and a fashionably long pair of antennae, you’ve found a porcelain crab!
And here’s a hint—look for the fuzz! Their hairy exoskeleton is not just for show. It’s a masterclass in camouflage. The fine fuzz traps sediment and helps them blend into their rocky or muddy homes. It’s like they’ve got their own built-in disguise.
Why They’re So Fragile
Ever tried picking up a porcelain crab? You might end up with just a handful of bits and pieces. These crabs are delicate and easily damaged, which is why they’re named after fragile porcelain. If you handle them roughly, they might shed a limb or two—a survival tactic known as autotomy. Think of it as their version of “if you can’t beat ‘em, leave ‘em something to munch on while you escape.”
When threatened, porcelain crabs might also flatten themselves against a rock, making it hard to grab them. It’s their way of saying, “Catch me if you can!”
The Intertidal Buffet: A Feast for the Senses
Porcelain crabs are the connoisseurs of the intertidal buffet, expertly navigating their rocky dining spots like seasoned gala goers. They prefer living in intertidal zones where organic matter and debris are plentiful. Their filter feeding method is nothing short of elegant—they comb through the water with their feathery mouthparts, snagging tiny particles with the finesse of a sommelier selecting the finest vintage.
Imagine them with their own built-in net, delicately fishing for snacks as if they’re at a fancy reception, savoring every morsel that passes by.
Porcelain crabs are like the refined, somewhat eccentric members of the extended crab family. With their stylish shells, delicate nature, and quirky behaviors, they add a touch of elegance to the underwater world. So next time you’re at the beach and see a rockpool, take a moment to appreciate these fascinating little creatures. After all, they’re not just crabs—they’re the crème de la crème of the crustacean world!
Written by Lena Ilic.
Photos by Ivana OK and Janez Kranjc.
Ivana and Janez
25th September 2024
