Velvet Crab

Nectocarcinus tuberculosus

Sea Life Native IUCN: Not Evaluated

About

This crab is similar to Nectocarcinus integrifrons but has the small notch between the eyes and is rougher in appearance. Occasionally can be caught in cray-pots and can also be seen sold in fish markets from time to time.

Identification

A reddish-brownish carapace and legs that are covered in small fine hairs and are rough or tuberculated (rough) the tips of the chelae are black or darker in colour and the rostrum features a small notch. The last walking leg is flattened and pointed at tip. The eye's in adults are red in colour

Size

Can grow to around 90mm

Habitat

Intertidal to subtidal rocky reef areas out to a depth of around 50m

Distribution

Southern Australia from WA to NSW including around Tasmania

Local Sightings

1 recorded sighting in and around the area.

References & citations (2)
  1. Taylor, J. and Poore, G. (2010) Nectocarcinus tuberculosus Velvet Crab in Museums Victoria Collections (accessed 2022-11-23 09:30:02)
  2. The Atlas of Living Australia (accessed 2022-11-23 09:30:21)

Header image: (CC BY-NC 4.0) © itara

Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into making sure identifications, descriptions, sizes, habitats and distribution details are as accurate as possible — but this information is ever-changing, so no guarantee is offered that it is correct or currently valid. Treat it as a guide and do a little of your own research for the latest word. Feedback and corrections are always welcome.