SCIENTIFIC NAME: NECORA PUBER
VERNACULAR NAME: VELVET SWIMMING CRAB

Fig 1
DESCRIPTION An aggressive crab with a velvety looking appearance and a carapace length of up to 65mm.  It has a nice velvety edging to all limb segments but the main distinguishing feature are the red eyes and flattened back legs.  The main colouring is of a reddish-brown with touches of blue on the legs.  
DISTRIBUTION Mainly southern and western coasts although the above example was pictured at Saltburn-by-the-Sea on the east coast.
HABITAT Beneath rocks on the lower shore.
BEST TIME TO SEE All year round.

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