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Atergatis spp.
| Family Name: | Xanthidae |
| Taxonomic Group: | Invertebrates (Crustacean, Crab and Prawn) |
Name
Ecology, Habitat & Location
| Ecological Notes | Found in littoral and sublittoral rock and coral rubble areas, and coral reefs. |
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| Habitats | Coral Reef |
| Distribution | Two species occur in Singapore: A. integerrimus (Red Egg Crab) and A. floridus (Floral Egg Crab); also found throughout the Indo-West Pacific. \ |
Conservation
| Trends & Threats | Loss of rocky littoral and coral reef habitats due directly or indirectly (sedimentation, pollution) to dumping, land reclamation and coastal development. |
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| Scientific Interest & Potential Value | These attractive crabs are uncommon in local waters, and threatened by destruction of suitable coral reef habitat. Atergatis integerrimus is a mildly poisonous species because it occasionally feeds on toxic organisms in small amounts. However, the smaller A. floridus is known to be highly toxic, and its consumption has resulted in human health. |
| Conservation Notes | The conservation of coral reef habitats is necessary for the conservation of this species. |
Status
| Species Status | Native |
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| Singapore Red Data Book Status | Vulnerable (VU) [2008] |
Photos
References
| References | Davison, G.W.H., Ng, P.K.L. & Ho, H.C (Eds.). 2008. The Singapore Red Data Book (2nd Edition). Singapore: Nature Society (Singapore). 285pp |
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