Distinguishing Characteristics |
Carapace squarish, 2 pair lateral spines near anterior margin, front margin with 3 small points, posterior margin with small arc in center; color gray to white, translucent; eye stalks broad, flat, squarish with rounded margins, small teeth on anterior margins, distinct eyespot on notches on lateral margins near the anterior (distal) end; 1 pair of long antennae; 1st pair of legs with sickle-like appendage at tip that fold back onto next segment (like a half claw); terminal segment of other legs arc or sickle-shaped; abdomen short, flexed under body, middle segment of tail fan (the telson) is heart-shaped; small hairs on margins of carapace, abdomen and legs. |
Similar Species |
The eyestalks of L. websteri are more oval and have lateral notches and tiny eyespots near the posterior (proximal) end of the eyestalks . Mole crabs of the species Albunea have narrow, triangular eyestalks. |
Habitat |
Gulf beaches, live in burrows in the intertidal zone and nearshore waters |
Maximum Size |
2.5 cm (1 in) carapace length |
Other Common Names |
sand crab |
Previous Scientific Names |
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Comments |
Photos courtesy of Ashley Wiseman, TAMUG student. |