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Gecarcinus lateralis

crustacean

Quick Summary

Gecarcinus lateralis, also known as the black land crab, is a species of crab belonging to the family Gecarcinidae. These crabs are primarily terrestrial, though adults may return to the sea occasionally. They are found in tropical regions of America, West Africa, and the Indo-Pacific.1

Gecarcinus lateralis is a large, active burrowing crab widely distributed on Caribbean islands and the northern coast of South America, with populations extending from Bermuda to Guyana. These crabs can live a considerable distance from the ocean, with some found up to 8 km inland. They are omnivorous, feeding on both plant and animal matter.12

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. land crab
  2. black land crab

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