Explore the Collection: Crustaceans
Notched Swimmer Crab (Thalamita crenata)
Thalamita crenata ranges in colour from blue, green and black, and may be mottled on the carapace. The carapace also has distinct notches along its edges. The crabs grow to a maximum size of ~100 mm in width.
Did you know?
Notched Swimmer Crabs can ‘swim’ using their paddle-like rear legs.
This species possess relatively large claws that are used for defence and the capture of prey, such as molluscs and other crabs. The last segment of the hind legs is flattened into a paddle, giving this crab the ability to swim.
These crabs can be found living either underwater or along shorelines. Thalamita crenata is found widely throughout Australia and the Indo-West Pacific region.
In the Dampier Archipelago these crabs are found associated with mangroves.
Photos of Notched Swimmer Crab Found in the Dampier Archipelago
Notched Swimmer Crab (Thalamita crenata). Photograph: Gary Morgan, WA Museum
Related Activites
Check out these activities!
