Scientific name:

Carcinus maenas

About:

The most familiar crab on our shore, it is widespread and common on a variety of habitats.

How to identify:

Colour is variable, usually a shade of green or brown; juveniles show much more variety in colour and pattern. The carapace has five 'teeth' either side of the eyes.

Where:

Common to all shorelines around Sussex, particularly the mid- to lower rock shore.

Fantastic facts:

Male and female shore crabs can be distinguished by looking at the underside: males have a long, thin triangle whereas females have a short, fat triangle (used for carrying eggs).