The Little Lobster That Reveals Climate

Pelagic red crabs, also known as tuna crabs, are squat lobsters found off Baja California. Their presence on California beaches signals unusual ocean conditions. They move with ocean currents and upwelling, influenced by climate events like El Niño and La Niña. These crabs serve as indicators of climate change, with strandings becoming more frequent due to marine heatwaves and warming oceans.

Explain the significance of the study published in 2015 regarding pelagic red crabs.

What are the potential consequences of marine heatwaves on pelagic red crabs?

Discuss the historical trend of pelagic red crab strandings and its implications.