A mass aggregation of Spider Crab off the Cornish coast had visitors in awe of the rare phenomenon.
Huge spider crab have been witnessed gathering in their thousands in a rarely-seen event by one of Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s Marine Conservation Officers.
The mass aggregation of male crabs was filmed in knee-deep water just a few metres from a popular Falmouth beach at low tide.
-
- ©Matt Slater & Cornwall Wildlife Trust
According to the local newspaper, Falmouth Packet, this undersea spectacle, which takes place annually between late summer and early autumn, involves crabs rallying together to protect themselves from the threat of predators.
This is because they are extremely vulnerable during the moulting process, as they crack open their exoskeletons and grow a new outer shell.
Matt Slater, Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s Marine Conservation Officer who filmed the incredible gathering, said:
“I have seen spider crabs on every dive and snorkel I have done for the past four years, but I have never seen a group as large as this! Looking down at the mass of crabs scuttling on the seabed was a truly incredible experience.
“Our seas are full of surprises – most locals would have no idea that one of the world’s great wildlife aggregations is occurring not too far from where they sleep. It goes to show how important our Cornish seas are and why we all need to look after them better.”
The formidable-looking spiny spider crab is a common species in Cornish waters, known for its characteristically long, spiny legs and claws which can span up to one metre. Populations appear to have thrived in recent years as a direct result of climate change and warming sea temperatures.
Earlier in the year, the spider crab was renamed the Cornish King Crab to improve its popularity with consumers and restaurants.
Harvey & Sons first started offering handpicked white spider crab meat just over ten years ago and is the only company to offer freshly prepared meat as well as a whole ‘Cornish King Crab’. White spider crab meat is slightly sweet, moist and more subtle than normal white crab meat making it a great alternative.
