|
|
Article: Crabs.(Facts, lessons and activities re. the crab)
- Article from:
- Science Weekly
- Article date:
- September 15, 2000
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2000 Science Weekly, Inc. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
|
Crabs are found all over the world, both on land and in water. In fact, scientists have counted more than 4400 species of crabs! Crabs are crustaceans (crus TAY shuns), like lobsters and shrimp. Most crustaceans have a soft body covered by a hard shell, or carapace (CARE uh pace). Crustaceans breathe through gills, just like fish. Crabs smell through their antennas.
Characteristics
Crabs come in many sizes. The smallest is the pea crab, which is only 1/2 inch wide. The largest is the Japanese spider crab, which can grow up to 12 feet across. That is twice as long as your bed! Crabs have 10 jointed legs on the sides of their bodies. They usually walk ...