Distinguishing Characteristics |
Carapace oval, wider than long, slightly wider anteriorly than posteriorly, highly arched; color of carapace tan to light orange, H-shaped depression on dorsal carapace; last legs regular, not flattened; no teeth on anterior lateral edges of carapace; major claw of males with no oblique ridge on palm, with about 4 slightly enlarged teeth on lower claw with 1 tooth at tip, 2 or 3 slightly enlarged teeth on movable claw; minor claw with almost no gape. |
Similar Species |
There is not a lot of descriptions about this crab because they are isolated in small areas and not well studied. It is the only land fiddler crab found in Texas, so that's a start. Its cylindrical body and lack of an oblique line on the male's major palm are considered distinguishing characteristics. Not much description of the female. I think the pattern of teeth on the male major claw will help to distinguish this crab from others, judging from photos I've seen. |
Habitat |
Brackish water habitats, mud flats, algal beds, some distance upstream from mouths of rivers and creeks |
Maximum Size |
2.5 cm (1 in) in width |
Other Common Names |
puffed fiddler crab |
Previous Scientific Names |
Uca subcylindrica |
Comments |
Range is inland from lower Texas coast and NE Mexico, noticeably from la Sal Vieja and Laguna Salada, both saline lakes in TX |