Nine-Tooth Pebble Crab

Cycloxanthops novemdentatus

The Nine-tooth Pebble Crab is a small member of the Xanthidae family, notable for its distinctive carapace featuring two sets of nine anterolateral teeth, which give the crab its common name. This species can vary in color from brown and red to purple, often with dark or light markings that persist even after molting. The carapace can grow up to 3.75 inches wide, making it the largest xanthid crab in California. Sexual dimorphism is evident in this species, with differences in abdominal segment size and shape becoming apparent as the crabs mature. This crab inhabits the eastern Pacific Ocean, ranging from Monterey, California, to Baja California. It is most commonly found in the southern parts of coastal southern California. In terms of diet, the Nine-tooth Pebble Crab is known to feed on purple sea urchins and other crab species. When threatened, it may freeze in place as a defense mechanism. The species has not been evaluated for conservation status by the IUCN.