Bloody Hermit Crab

Dardanus sanguinocarpus

The Bloody Hermit Crab, belonging to the family Diogenidae, is a benthic crustacean found in tropical regions of the Pacific Ocean, including areas around French Polynesia. Divers can encounter this species at depths ranging from 1 to 112 meters, although most occurrences are recorded at shallower depths, typically less than 40 meters. This habitat preference makes them accessible to divers exploring coral reefs and other shallow marine environments. As a member of the order Decapoda, the Bloody Hermit Crab exhibits typical reproductive behaviors of the group, including a precopulatory courtship ritual that relies on olfactory and tactile cues. Mating involves indirect sperm transfer, a common trait among decapods. Divers encountering this species may observe its characteristic behavior as it moves along the ocean floor, often retreating into its shell when approached.