There isn't a whole lot of information about California king crabs (Paralithodes rathbuni) out there—but they're a crucial character to include in your compilation of cool crustacean critters scavenging and crunching crabby and echinoderm victims in collaboration with the complete consortium of creatures collectively concocting the ecosystem. Plus they're not a bad throne for a spot prawn. Scientific Name
Paralithodes rathbuni
Animal Type
Invertebrates
Diet
Crabs, sea stars, scavenged food
Size
to 6 inches across (15 cm)
Relatives
California king crab, Alaskan king crab; other crustaceans (crabs, shrimp, lobsters)
Habitat
Deep Sea
Range
Seafloor, 500-2,400 feet (152-732 m)
Natural History
Spiny king crabs prowl the deep seafloor for live food, eating other crabs and sea stars. But when they can't find fresh food, they're quick to lunch on leftover scraps or dead animals that fall from above.
This crab has clutching claws and fast-moving mouth parts—they help the crab grab food, tear it apart and shovel the pieces into its mouth.
Conservation
In Monterey Bay, local fishers catch these king crabs using traps. Trapping is generally a safe way to catch seafood, as unwanted animals can be released unharmed.
Cool Facts
Sharp spikes protrude from this crab's body, offering protection from predators.
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