Atlas of Habitats

individual

0.0001 m³

at 0 m

6.71ºN

L10 [ghosted] burrow

sand

mixed

invertebrates

L10 [ghosted] burrow

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Introduction

Liberia
Sembehun Beach
6.7097° N, 11.3355° W
09/04/2024, 10:30 am

Atlantic ghost crabs, known for their elusive nature, are common inhabitants of tropical and subtropical shorelines worldwide. These crabs, also called sand crabs, are named for their ability to vanish into the sandy beaches and dunes they call home. With six powerful legs, ghost crabs can reach speeds of up to 15km/h, making them masters of evasion. This habitat was documented on Sembehun Beach, where the wide, sandy expanse provides an ideal environment for the crabs.

Micro Climate

Ghost crabs favor expansive, deserted sandy beaches where they can dig deep burrows that remain hidden, moist, and saline. The choice of burrow location is influenced by factors like sand compaction, moisture, beach slope, and the risk of inundation, all of which are crucial for their survival and comfort.

Material

Ghost crabs live in burrows dug into the sand, which offer both shelter and camouflage. Sand is their primary material, providing a structure for their homes and a medium for their burrowing abilities.

Location

Ghost crabs are widespread across tropical and subtropical regions globally, thriving in the intertidal zones of sandy beaches. As semi-terrestrial crustaceans, they are well-adapted to life on temperate to tropical shores, where they burrow deeply into the sand for protection and sustenance.

Construction

Ghost crabs are known for constructing semi-permanent burrows at the intertidal-dune interface of sandy beaches. These burrows serve not only as homes but also as indicators of environmental changes. Ghost crabs exhibit various behaviors linked to burrow construction, such as plugging, filling, and mound building, often accompanied by displays to obscure neighboring burrows. This high-energy process of burrowing requires careful energy management, influencing how crabs space, maintain and occupy their burrows.