Horned ghost crab
Ocypode ceratophthalma
The horned ghost crab is the one that digs all the holes that can be found on the beaches of Onetahi.
Ocypode ceratophthalma
It gets its name from the horn like eyes that protrude up from its body and its sandy color that makes it blend into the background when it stands still.
Tahitian names
ohiti
Interesting facts
The horned ghost crab is the one that digs all the holes that can be found on the beaches of Onetahi. It is part of the category of true crabs unlike hermit crabs or coconut crabs. It gets its name from the horn like eyes that protrude up from its body and its sandy color that makes it blend into the background when it stands still. When it runs, it can reach speeds of 2.1 m/s (7 ft/s). It has an angular, cubic, body with an H shaped spot easily seen on the top of its back. The holes it digs can be very deep and they hide during the day to avoid drying out. They are nocturnal and need water to breath.
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