Platypodia eydouxi | |
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Scientific classification ![]() | |
Domain: | Eukaryota |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Arthropoda |
Class: | Malacostraca |
Order: | Decapoda |
Suborder: | Pleocyemata |
Infraorder: | Brachyura |
Family: | Xanthidae |
Genus: | Platypodia |
Species: | P. eydouxi |
Binomial name | |
Platypodia eydouxi (A. Milne-Edwards, 1865) | |
Platypodia eydouxi, also called the red-eyed xanthid crab, is a crab that belongs to the family Xanthidae. [1] It is primarily found in coral reefs and shallow marine environments across the Indo-Pacific, including Hawaii, where it is crucial in maintaining marine biodiversity. [2]
Platypodia eydouxi is characterized by its distinctive red eyes, which contrast with its brownish, oval-shaped carapace. [3] The species typically has a broad and flattened body, with a sturdy carapace that provides protection. [4] Males tend to have slightly larger and more pronounced claws compared to females, though both genders share similar body structures. [3] These physical traits allow the species to blend into its coral reef environment, aiding in both defense and predation. [3]
Platypodia eydouxi is primarily found in the Indo-Pacific region, with populations spread across countries such as Japan, Indonesia, and Australia. [5] This species thrives in marine habitats like coral reefs, mangroves, and rocky shores, where it finds shelter and abundant food sources. [6] To survive, Platypodia eydouxi relies on warm water temperatures and a steady supply of small marine organisms, which support its ecological role as both predator and prey in these environments. [6]