Umbrella Crab

Cryptolithodes sitchensis

The Umbrella Crab, also known as the turtle crab, is a unique species of king crab found along the northeastern Pacific coast, from Sitka, Alaska to Point Loma, California. Its distinctive carapace extends over its legs, giving it the appearance of a small stone when it retracts its limbs. This adaptation helps it blend into its rocky habitat, making it a master of camouflage. The carapace is ovate and smooth, with colors ranging from sandy neutrals to oranges, reds, and purples. Adult Umbrella Crabs can reach a width of over 5 cm, with males and females differing slightly in the number of accessory plates on their abdominal segments. This species inhabits rocky areas from the low intertidal zone down to depths of 37 meters, though it is most commonly found at shallower depths of up to 15 meters. Divers encountering the Umbrella Crab may find it nestled among rocks, its coloration providing excellent camouflage. The species is not currently evaluated for conservation status by the IUCN, and there are no specific threats to humans associated with it.