Family Grapsidae - shore, marsh, and talon crabs

  Order
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  Class
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Malacostraca
  No. of Genera in Ref.
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  No. of Species in Ref.
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41
  Environment
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Fresh : No | Brackish : No | Marine : Yes
  Aquarium
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  First Fossil Record
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Ref..   De Grave, S., N. Dean Pentcheff, S.T. Ahyong, T.-Y. Chan, K.A. Crandall, P.C. Dworschak, D.L. Felder, R.M. Feldmann, C.H.J.M. Fransen, L.Y.D. Goulding, R. Lemaitre, M.E.Y. Low, J.W. Martin, P.K.L. Ng, C.E. Schweitzer and S.H. … Tan 2009
  Remark
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Also known as lightfoot crabs and matchbox crabs. Carapace squarish or circular, dorsally often with transverse ridges. Front broader than eyes, usually without teeth, if teeth or lobes are present these are even in number. Ventral margin of orbit runs downwards toward buccal cavity. Anterolateral margin of carapace with at most 2 teeth behind orbit. Pterygostomian region may be setose but no network-like pattern discernible. Rhomboidal gap between third maxillipeds with mandibles exposed, merus and ischium of third maxillipeds without hairy oblique ridge; posterior 4 pairs of legs similar, their dactyli with conspicuous spines. Male abdomen occupying all space between bases of fifth legs. Members of the family are typically inhabitants of the litoral zone. They can be swimming, climbing or terrestrial. Species occur in rocky areas or estuarine waters, few are associated with floating objects (Planes) (Ref. 104052).
  Etymology
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  Division
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  Reproductive guild
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  Typical activity level
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  Main Ref.
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Ref.
[ e.g. 9948]                       
Glossary
                    [ e.g. cephalopods]