Mole Crabs: Behavior and Ecology

Mole crabs are small crustaceans found in marine waters worldwide. They live in colonies in the intertidal zone, adapting to constant wave action and tides. Mole crabs have tough armor, five pairs of appendages, and a telson for digging. They feed on plankton and detritus using feathery antennae. Males attach to females for mating, and females carry up to 45,000 eggs. Larvae drift as plankton. Predators include fish and birds, and humans use mole crabs as bait. They are harmless to humans.

Where are mole crabs typically found?

• In freshwater lakes

• In mountain streams

• In tropical and temperate marine waters

• In desert sands

What is the primary function of a mole crab's telson?

• Digging

• Defense

• Feeding

• Swimming

How do mole crabs primarily feed?

• By scavenging dead fish

• By filtering water through gills

• With their feathery antennae

• Using their claws

What is unique about the mating behavior of male mole crabs?

• They attach to females and become semi-parasitic

• They fight other males for territory

• They change color to attract females

• They build nests for females

How many eggs can a female mole crab carry at one time?

• Up to 10,000

• Up to 1,000

• Up to 45,000

• Up to 100,000

Which animals are the main predators of mole crabs?

• Seals and sea lions

• Crabs and lobsters

• Fish and birds

• Sharks and dolphins

For what purpose are mole crabs often used by humans?

• As a delicacy in gourmet dishes

• For scientific research

• For making jewelry

• As bait for fishing

What is a notable characteristic of mole crabs in relation to humans?

• They can sting

• They are aggressive

• They are harmless

• They are venomous