Allogalathea elegans (Photo Credit: Andrew Hoise)

Crinoid squat lobster

Allogalathea elegans

Small squat lobsters, from relatively shallow waters (found in depths from 0-146 m) and often associated with crinoids.

Morphology

They can be distinguished from the other genera by the flat and triangular rostrum (with a carina underneath and 5-9 lateral teeth) and a carapace with setiferous striae. Coloration varies from solid red to black and white stripes and generally matches the crinoid colouration.

Evolution

Until recently this was the only species in the genus. It has now four species, with slight variations in morphology (such as length and proportion of claws), colour patterns and distribution.

Behaviour

Commensal on crinoids, feeding on detritus. Can oftern be found in pairs on crinoids

Method of reproduction

Sexual

Habitat

Marine

This species has a wide Indo-West Pacific distribution

Distribution

Indo-West Pacific

Life Cycle

Several planktonic larval stages.

Taxonomy

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Crustacea
Class: Malacostraca
Subclass: Eumalacostraca
Superorder: Eucarida
Order: Decapoda
Suborder: Pleocyemata
Infraorder: Anomura
Superfamily: Galatheidae
Genus: Allogalathea
Species: elegans
Name Published Year: 1848
Scientific Name Authorship: Adams & White
Commercial Impact: 

This species has minor commercial value as part of the aquarium trade.

Conservation Assessment: Least Concern

Net Conservation Benefits Fund

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Western Australian Museum Collections https://museum.wa.gov.au/online-collections/names/allogalathea-elegans
Accessed 3 Sep 2023

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