Three-Pronged Flat Spider Crab

Halicarcinus ovatus

Halicarcinus ovatus - Three-Pronged Flat Spider Crab
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Size: 1 cm

Distribution: All SA coastal and gulf waters

Habitat: Rocky areas under rocks, or in seagrass

Depth: Intertidal to 10+ metres

Halicarcinus ovatus - Three-Pronged Flat Spider Crab
Halicarcinus ovatus - Three-Pronged Flat Spider Crab
Halicarcinus ovatus - Three-Pronged Flat Spider Crab
Halicarcinus ovatus - Three-Pronged Flat Spider Crab
Halicarcinus ovatus - Three-Pronged Flat Spider Crab
Halicarcinus ovatus - Three-Pronged Flat Spider Crab

This small crab is found under rocks in the intertidal zone. It has a highly variable appearance, with many colours and patterns. It has a roughly circular and slightly concave carapace, and can be identified by its three short "prongs" in between its eyes.