Bandclaw Hermit Crab

Pagurus redondoensis

The Bandclaw Hermit Crab, belonging to the family Paguridae, is a small crustacean found in the East Pacific region. This species is typically associated with benthic environments, often inhabiting areas with sandy or muddy bottoms. Divers may encounter this hermit crab at various dive sites, as it is known to inhabit coastal waters. The Bandclaw Hermit Crab is primarily found at shallower depths, with 92% of recorded observations occurring at depths less than 40 meters. As with other members of the order Decapoda, this species exhibits gonochoric reproduction, meaning individuals are distinctly male or female. Mating involves a precopulatory courtship ritual, utilizing olfactory and tactile cues for indirect sperm transfer.