Discover The Vibrant Flame Box Crab: A Unique Crustacean In The Indo-Pacific
The flame box crab, scientifically classified as Calappa flammea, is a distinctive crustacean known for its vibrant coloration and mosaic-like patterns. Its average size ranges from 6 to 12 centimeters, and its notable morphological features include enlarged chelipeds with a granular surface, a triangular carapace, and cryptic coloration. The flame box crab inhabits sandy and coral reef environments, seeking shelter in crevices and under rocks. Its diet primarily consists of mollusks, while its reproductive strategies vary seasonally. The crab is distributed across the Indo-Pacific region and faces potential threats from habitat loss, overfishing, and climate change, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to preserve its biodiversity.