PREDATORY BEHAVIOR OF THE XANTHID CRAB ERIPHIA SMITHII BREAKING THE SHELLS CONTAINING HERMIT CRABS

Abstract

The Xanthid crab Eriphia smithii preys on hermit crabs. Two chelae, ambulatory legs, and mouth parts are used for capturing them. The crab breaks shells with hermit crabs in them by using its massive and powerful master, claw. About 70% of the crabs are right-handed. Many species of shells occupied by hermit crabs are found at Banda Shore. E. smithii breaks these shells.