Gaudy Clown Crab

Platypodiella spectabilis

There is not a lot known about this small (1 inch) crab. The markings on their carapace (the top of their exoskeleton) varies in pattern but not so much in color. The markings are orange to red with dark outlines over a cream/yellow background that has small black and yellow spots. They are a "true" crab, (they don't live in shells). This specimen was found in 10 ft. deep water at a depth of about 2 feet in an horizontal algae covered crevice. He was out savaging for food in the daytime in an area of surge. Some very nice Strawberry tunicate s were his immediate  neighbors..

Gaudy Clown Crab - Platypodiella spectabilis
Gaudy Clown Crab - Platypodiella spectabilis
Gaudy Clown Crab - Platypodiella spectabilis
Gaudy Clown Crab - Platypodiella spectabilis
Gaudy Clown Crab - Platypodiella spectabilis

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