Habitat: Sandy substrate, algae beds and rocky reef
Depth: Subtidal to 10+ metres
The largest spider crab encountered in shallow waters, this species is usually found at much greater depth. However, during certain times of the year, they seek shallower waters to breed and moult, often in enormous aggregations. L. gaimardii is usually bright to pale orange in colour, but can be heavily encrusted. Along with their particular pattern of carapace spines, they can be distinguished from most other coastal spider crabs by their large size. Naxia aurita is another species that can grow fairly large, but that species is differentiated by its yellow body, black spots and red eyes.
