Cardisoma armatum

Harlequin crab ( Cardisoma armatum )

The Harlequin crab ( Cardisoma armatum ) is a large crab whose carapace can be up to 20 inches wide. It is one of the land crabs and needs to be close by freshwater only to keep their gills moist. It is referred to in Germany as " African giant crab ", " West African land crab ", " giant crab Color " or " Tricolorkrabbe ".

Features

The term harlequin crab refers to the colorful exterior of this land crab. The three colors red, blue and white have the crab and the name " Tricolorkrabbe " introduced in the U.S., even the term " Patriot Crab " because it reflects the colors of the flag of the United States. Its carapace is dark blue, the scissors ( Chelipeden ) are light yellowish to white, the walking legs ( pereiopods ) are reddish in color.

Dissemination

The Harlequin shrimp lives in the mangroves and the adjoining forests of West Africa from Cape Verde to Angola. Proximity to the sea or brackish water (delta estuaries or estuaries of rivers ) is important for reproduction.

Nutrition

Like all land crabs are the harlequin crab omnivore. They eat both vegetable, as well as carrion. In Aquaterrarium you can feed them with fruit or raw fish, but also with turtle food.

Reproduction

The Harlequin shrimp propagate through the crab typical unspecialized type of development, which consists of several free-floating larval stages ( zoea larvae). These stages take place in the sea or brackish water.

Attitude

Because of their size, the harlequin crab should be kept in a Aquaterrarium of 100 cm length. Your lifestyle requires a land share of at least 50 %, which should consist of soft substrate, so that they can create their burrows. 'Strong territorial behavior, this land crab is not suitable for socialization with other crabs, not even within their own kind Smaller animals and any vegetation it regards as a food source. An offspring is not possible in freshwater.