The batwing coral crab has enormous potential in the pet industry; however, its gigantic size doesn’t allow keeping it in aquariums. The time passed by and it became more popular as an edible species.
There is limited information and research available about this crab; here is everything I have gathered.
Quick overview of batwing coral crab
| Names | Batwing coral crab, Juey tímido, red coral crab, Juey dormido, Cangrejo dormido, Guajá crab, Batwing crab |
| Scientific name | Carpilius corallinus |
| Diet | Carnivore |
| Color | Dark red, pale red |
| Sleeping nature | Nocturnal |
| Size | 15.0 cm |
| Depth | 1-50 m |
Batwing coral crab facts
Habitat and distribution of batwing crab
These crabs live in coral reefs and rocky areas of shallow water in the tropical waters of the central-western Atlantic, including the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. Active during the day
Appearance: juey dormido
It has a reddish body with scarlet and yellow spots and can grow up to 15 cm. The coloration of batwing coral crabs allows them to camouflage with the corals and hide from predators. That’s why they are also referred to as coral crabs. On their carapace, they have a dark red shape that resembles batwings.
It can move gracefully in the maritime environment thanks to its long, slender legs and rounded carapace.
Mating and Reproduction of carpilius corallinus
In Batwing Coral Crabs, mating starts with the male flipping upside down and waving his claws to attract a female. She climbs on top, and they flip again with the male on top. The female’s tail curves over the male, and they stay coupled for two days. Sadly, the male dies after mating.
During reproduction, female Batwing Coral Crabs carry fertilized eggs on their swimming legs until they hatch, usually after about a month. Studies show the larvae go through five stages of development, but one of the stages, called the megalopa stage, hasn’t been fully understood yet.1
What do batwing coral crabs eat?
Although the majority of crabs are omnivorous, batwing coral crabs have been shown to be carnivorous in their diet. They were observed eating sea urchins (Diadema antillarum), Christmas tree worms (Spirobranchus giganteus), and gastropods.
Are batwing coral crabs edible
Yes, batwing coral crabs (Carpilius corallinus) are edible and are considered a delicacy in some parts of the Caribbean and Central America. They’ve gained popularity as a food source due to their large size and meaty claws. However, they’re not commonly found in commercial markets, mostly caught for local consumption or by recreational fishers.
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