Common Guard Crab

Trapezia intermedia

Trapezia intermedia, commonly known as the Common Guard Crab, is a small crustacean found in the central Pacific Ocean, particularly in coral reef areas. It measures about 1.5 cm in size and is easily recognizable by its light brown and orange-spotted body adorned with red dots and blue eyes. These crabs are known for their protective nature, often found nestled among the branches of stony corals, especially Pocillopora species, where they defend their coral hosts from threats such as the crown-of-thorns seastar. The Common Guard Crab is typically found in shallow waters, with most occurrences recorded at depths shallower than 10 meters. It plays a vital role in its habitat by using its claws to remove debris and harmful organisms from the coral, thereby maintaining the health of its host. This symbiotic relationship provides the crab with food and shelter, while the coral benefits from its protective and cleaning behaviors. The conservation status of Trapezia intermedia has not been evaluated, but it is recorded at numerous dive sites.