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.
Kingdom: | Animalia |
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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 |
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Scientific Name Authorship: | Adams & White |
Commercial Impact: | This species has minor commercial value as part of the aquarium trade. |
Conservation Assessment: | Least Concern |
Cite this page
Western Australian Museum Collections https://museum.wa.gov.au/online-collections/names/allogalathea-elegans
Accessed 3 Sep 2023
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