7 Fun Facts About Fiddler Crabs

Zee Media Bureau
Apr 17, 2024

Name Origin

The name "fiddler crab" comes from the male's distinctive waving motion used to attract mates.

Claw Enlargement

Either the right or left claw is significantly larger, with a roughly equal split between the two.

Mate Selection Criteria

Females select mates based on both the size of the enlarged claw and the male's performance with it.

Burrow Adaptation

They can temporarily seal their burrows to protect themselves from high tides and predators, relying on air trapped inside for breathing.

Short Lifespan

Their lifespan is relatively short, typically not exceeding two years.

Dietary Preferences

Their diet primarily consists of algae, bacteria, fungus, and detritus scraped off sand particles.

Shell Growth Process

Rather than shedding their shells as they grow, fiddler crabs reabsorb them.

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