Hang out with the Mangrove Tree Crab
If you find yourself in the mangrove swamp, you might see these guys literally falling from the trees. Aratus pisonii migrates both the shore of mangrove swamps and during times of high tide migrates up into mangrove tree canopies (Smithsonian, 2009).
The Aratus pisonii is the only crab to the genus Aratus. It’s carapace is about 2.0 cm on average making it very small comparable to what most people think of a crab. It exhibits a dark green to brown color. The Tree Crab spends time in both the terrestrial and aquatic environments along coastal regions. There are many factors in which influence the crabs choice of environmen including oxygen factors, reproduction, and avoiding predation (Smithsonian, 2009).
The tree crab tends to feed on the leaves of the
trees they reside in. This is most commonly the leaves of the
red mangrove trees but also includes those of the white and black
mangrove trees. Other food sources include smaller arthropods
and algae (Beever et al. 1979).
Explore our site to learn about the topics of
Classification,
Form and Function,
Habitat, Life
History, Interactions, and
Facts of the Mangrove Tree Crab!
Start by viewing the Classification page!