There are so many creatures in the sea that offer infinite sources of inspiration, but if you’re a fashionista, you need to turn your attention to the decorator crab. Also known as the dresser crab and little seaweed crab, this species belongs to a family of crabs called Majidae, which are characterized by their carapace, or main shell component of their exoskeleton, which is longer than it is wide, unlike many other crabs. These crabs are covered in little bristles that act as a sort of Velcro for whatever objects they deem suitable for their purposes. And for this reason, no two decorator crabs will ever be alike.
The decorator crab is acutely aware of its surroundings, and is incredibly resourceful. Bits of seaweed, plastic, fabric, and even living creatures like sponges, coral polyps, and anemones are all prime candidates for becoming this diminutive crustacean’s camouflage. Upon finding a piece that will provide adequate cover, the decorator crab will then tailor it to its desired dimensions using its mouth and a pair of surprisingly dexterous pincers, deftly placing the finished product on its designated area.
If the objects are living creatures, this presents an opportunity for a symbiotic relationship. In addition to creating the illusion of the crab being nothing more than a part of the landscape to predators, anemones and sponges can be venomous, thereby adding an extra level of security to the decorator crab’s defenses. In return, the crustacean provides a constant supply of new waters in which the hitchhikers can filter food, as the decorator crab is a forage feeder, and often on the move.
These relationships can last throughout the lifetime of the crab. When it is time to molt, the decorator crab will remove the coverings from its former shell and place them on its new one. The exception to this is if the crab should find itself in a completely new environment; in which case it will find new pieces that match the new surroundings. To hide from predators, the only action it must take is none — it will hold perfectly still until the threat of danger has passed, and then continue about its business. Check out this amusing video of the decorator crab’s rather…refined tastes.
