MACROCHEIRA KAEMPFERI Meaning and
Definition
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Macrocheira kaempferi, commonly known as the Japanese spider crab, is a species of marine crustacean belonging to the family Inachidae. It is considered one of the largest arthropods in the world and is primarily found in the waters around Japan. This species holds a vital place in marine ecosystems due to its unique characteristics and significant size.
The Japanese spider crab is easily recognized by its intimidating appearance, characterized by long, spindly legs and a disproportionately large, reddish-brown carapace covered in spines and tubercles. Adult individuals can reach an astounding leg span of up to 3.8 meters, with body sizes of around 40 centimeters, making them an impressive sight.
These crabs are predominantly bottom-dwellers and are typically found at depths of around 50 to 250 meters. They prefer areas with sandy or muddy substrates, often hiding under rocks or in crevices during the day, while venturing out at night to scavenge for food. Their diet consists mainly of shellfish, mollusks, small fish, and even dead animals.
Featuring a hard exoskeleton that needs periodic shedding for growth, the Japanese spider crab undergoes a molting process throughout its life. During this time, they are at their most vulnerable, with soft shells making them easier targets for predators. Despite this, their longevity can extend up to a century, making them one of the longest-living arthropods.
Due to its impressive size, unique appearance, and scarcity, the Japanese spider crab has garnered immense interest and fascination among both scientists and the general public. They are often displayed in public aquariums, providing an opportunity for people to witness the wonders of marine life up close.
Common Misspellings for MACROCHEIRA KAEMPFERI
- nacrocheira kaempferi
- kacrocheira kaempferi
- jacrocheira kaempferi
- mzcrocheira kaempferi
- mscrocheira kaempferi
- mwcrocheira kaempferi
- mqcrocheira kaempferi
- maxrocheira kaempferi
- mavrocheira kaempferi
- mafrocheira kaempferi
- madrocheira kaempferi
- maceocheira kaempferi
- macdocheira kaempferi
- macfocheira kaempferi
- mactocheira kaempferi
- mac5ocheira kaempferi
- mac4ocheira kaempferi
- macricheira kaempferi
- macrkcheira kaempferi
Etymology of MACROCHEIRA KAEMPFERI
The word "Macrocheira Kaempferi" is a scientific name given to the Japanese spider crab, which is a species of marine crab found off the coast of Japan. The etymology of this name can be broken down as follows:
1. Macrocheira: The prefix "macro-" is derived from the Greek word "makrós", meaning large or long. "Cheir" is derived from the Greek word "kheir", meaning hand. Thus, "macrocheira" refers to the crab's large claws or legs, which resemble hands.
2. Kaempferi: This specific epithet is named after Engelbert Kaempfer, a German physician and naturalist who was one of the first Europeans to describe the Japanese spider crab in the 17th century. The "-i" at the end denotes that it is a species named after an individual.
