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Systematics: Brachyura Family Grapsidae
Distinguishing Characters:
The carapace is commonly 20-30 mm wide, mottled with variable patterns of red, brown,
purple, and yellow. The sides of carapace are curved and without teeth.
Habitat and Distribution:
This species of shore crab lives under rocks, most frequently between mid-tide and
high-tide levels. It occurs in South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania.
General Biology:
Shore crabs are very active and race for shelter when disturbed. Because they can survive
for several hours out of water they are able to live above the low-tide level on rocky
shores. Rough shore crabs are scavengers, using their claws to tear apart dead fishes and
rotting seaweed.