Red-Eyed Reef Crab

Eriphia smithii

The Red-eyed Reef Crab, known for its distinctive bright red eyes, has a dark reddish-brown carapace with a rectangular shape. The anterior surface of the carapace is granulated, and the anterolateral margins are adorned with numerous spines. A notable feature is the large molariform tooth at the base of the movable finger of its larger claw, which distinguishes it from similar species. This crab is found in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting tropical and subtropical reefs. It prefers shallow waters, often taking shelter in cliff holes and crevices. The Red-eyed Reef Crab is active during both diurnal and nocturnal low tides, foraging on rocky and soft substrates. Its diet is varied and opportunistic, consisting of algae during the day and crustaceans and mollusks at night. While the conservation status of this species is not evaluated, it is recorded at numerous dive sites.