Parasesarma erythodactylum (Hess, 1865) ‒ Red-fingered Marsh Crab

Species Account

A small intertidal mangrove and saltmarsh species endemic to east Australia. Herbivorous, known to feed on fresh mangrove leaves. Burrows in mud banks and mud flats. Also found in crevices and under rocks and logs. Carapace square, without lateral teeth behind eyes. Body colour dark grey in young specimens to a striking cobalt green in large males, fingertips of chelae red or orange. Body width to 25 mm. — John W. Short, 2026

Image

Young specimen collected from Flame Tree Creek near Airlie Beach, Queensland, Australia, John W. Short, June 1997. Photographed by John W. Short.