top of page

Infra-order Brachyura, Family Grapsidae

Intermediate grapsus | Grapsus intermedius  De Man, 1888 ​

Christmas Island crabs, intermediate grapsus, grapsus intermedius, crab, Christmas Island, Max Orchard

Photo: JC Mendoza

Coloration varies through its range but on Christmas Island the crab has an overall greyish white appearance with chestnut brownish splotches. The upper surfaces and legs are covered with mottled brown/black patterning. Under surface is greyish white. Long flattened legs. The end section of the walking legs are stout and have spines.

Active at night and seldom seen during daylight. Very shy, disappearing instantly into underwater crevices at the slightest sign of danger. It is a scavenger and also eats seaweeds.

Read more about Christmas Island's intermediate grapsus crab in the book

"Crabs of Christmas Island" by Max Orchard

Intermediate grapsus, crabs, Christmas Island crabs

Intermediate grapsus

bottom of page