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Description:
Mangrove fiddler crabs reach approximately 3/4 inch carapace length.
The carapace is typically a glossy, dark brown color. Legs are
generally brown to orange-brown. The enlarged male claw is also orange
to orange-brown in color. The palm area of the male claw has an
oblique row of tubercles, and the lower finger of this claw is bent
downward. Females often have green algae covering the carapace.
Habitat:
Mangrove fiddler crabs inhabit muddy substrates, often in shaded areas.
They are commonly found along the banks of mangrove-lined estuaries and
tidal creeks.
Similar Species:
Mangrove fiddler crabs superficially resemble other fiddler crabs, but are
distinguished by the large orange claw of the male, and by the glossy brown
color of the carapace.
Range:
Mangrove fiddler crabs range from Florida south to Brazil.
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Male mangrove fiddler crab, Uca thayeri, collected from the Indian River Lagoon. Photo courtesy of B. Tunberg, Smithsonian Marine Station.
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Female mangrove fiddler crab with eggs.
Note the algae covering the rear portion
of the carapace and legs. Photo
courtesy of B. Tunberg, Smithsonian Marine Station.
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Mangrove fiddler crabs build deep, elaborate burrows in the soft mud they
inhabit. Females that are brooding eggs often build burrows having
tall mud chimneys.
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