Hermit Crabs, Squat Lobsters & allies

This diverse group of crustaceans is scientifically known as the Anomura. It includes the hermit crabs (superfamily Paguroidea), squat lobsters (superfamilies Galatheoidea and Chirostyloidea) and porcelain crabs (family Porcellanidae), amongst other less familiar anomuran groups. The name Anomura literally means "differently-tailed," and refers to the unusual abdomens these crustaceans possess, which tend to be somewhat reduced in size, and flattened, compared to those of shrimps and lobsters. These abdomens are often carried as a broad flap tucked under the body, although the hermit crabs hide their large fleshy abdomens in discarded snail shells. Anomurans are found in a wide variety of habitats, from the shoreline to the deep sea.

Examples of the group include:

  • Elegant Squat Lobster (Allogalathea elegans)
  • Lamarck's Porcelain Crab (Petrolisthes lamarckii)
  • Mauve-eyed Hermit (Dardanus crassimanus)
  • Spotted Hermit (Dardanus megistos)
  • Pink-clawed Hermit (Dardanus pedunculatus)
  • Yellow-striped Hermit (Clibanarius taeniatus)

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