Neopetrolisthes maculatus is a small, colorful species of porcelain crab found in the Indo-Pacific region.
These crabs have a porcelain-like shell, giving them their name.
They live within the stinging tentacles of various sea anemone species, which provide protection from predators.
Where Can Neopetrolisthes maculatus Be Found?
Neopetrolisthes maculatus crabs are commonly found on the tropical reefs of Western Australia.
They live on or around large sea anemones, which protect them from potential predators with their stinging tentacles.
Only one pair of crabs can be found on each host since they will defend their territory from rivals.
How Do Neopetrolisthes maculatus Feed?
Neopetrolisthes maculatus is a filter feeder. These crabs don’t use their impressive claws to capture food.
Instead, their mouthparts have long bristles called setae, which they use like a broom to sweep small organisms, such as planktonic algae and crustaceans, from the water column.
What Family Do Neopetrolisthes maculatus Belong To?
These crabs belong to the family Porcellanidae, which is often called porcelain crabs, half crabs, or false crabs.
While they may look similar to true crabs, they are actually more closely related to hermit crabs.
What Are the Differences Between Porcelain Crabs and True Crabs?
- Abdomen: Porcelain crabs have a tail fan similar to lobsters or shrimp, while true crabs don’t.
- Antennae: Porcelain crabs have a pair of long whip-like antennae, while true crabs have a small stumpy pair between their eyes.
How Do Neopetrolisthes maculatus Defend Themselves?
Neopetrolisthes maculatus use their large claws to fend off potential home invaders and defend their territory.
When threatened, they can also flick their abdomen to swim out of danger quickly.
Neopetrolisthes maculatus Characteristics
| Reef Safe? | Yes |
| Care Level: | Easy |
Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Class: | Malacostraca |
| Order: | Decapoda |
| Family: | Porcellanidae |
| Genus: | Neopetrolisthes |
| Scientific Name: | Neopetrolisthes maculatus |
| Also Known As: | Anemone Crab |
| Conservation Status: | Unknown |