Coconut Crab
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Most animals without backbones are quite small but there are some remarkable exceptions among the crabs (Order: Decapoda; Subphylum: Crustacea). The coconut crab (scientific name: Birgus latro) is one of several large species represented in The Tiegs Museum collection by mounted specimens. This specimen is some 40 cm across (not currently on display). The coconut crab was named for its ability to crack coconuts with its strong pincers and eat the contents. It is the largest crab to live out of water. |