Black finger crab facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Black finger crab |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| Phylum: | |
| Subphylum: | |
| Class: | |
| Order: | |
| Infraorder: | |
| Family: |
Oziidae
|
| Genus: |
Ozius
|
| Species: |
O. truncatus
|
| Binomial name | |
| Ozius truncatus H. Milne-Edwards, 1834
|
|
The black finger crab or reef crab (scientific name: Ozius truncatus) is a type of crab. It belongs to the family called Menippidae. This crab is special because it is found only in certain areas. It lives in south-eastern Australia and the North Island of New Zealand. When an animal or plant is found only in one specific place, it is called endemic.
Discover the Black Finger Crab!
The black finger crab is also known as the reef crab. It is a very common sight in its natural home. These crabs love to live in areas where the ocean meets the land. This is called the intertidal zone. They also live in very shallow parts of the ocean, just below the water's surface.
Where Do Reef Crabs Live?
You can often find these crabs hiding under loose rocks. They prefer rocky shores where they can find good shelter. Their homes are usually in areas with temperate waters. This means the water is not too hot and not too cold.
Reef crabs are found in several places. In Australia, they live in southern Western Australia. They are also found along the southern Australian coast. Their range extends north into southern Queensland. In New Zealand, they are found around the North Island.
What Do Black Finger Crabs Look Like?
These crabs can grow quite large! They can reach up to 20 centimeters (about 8 inches) across. This measurement is for their shell, from one side to the other. Their size makes them easy to spot if you are looking for them in their habitat.
