Japanese spider crab
The Japanese spider crab (Macrocheira kaempferi) is a species of marine crab that lives in the waters around Japan. It has the largest leg span of any arthropod. These giants go through three main larval stages along with a prezoeal stage in order to grow to their great size.The genus Macrocheira contains multiple species. Two fossil species belonging to this genus have been found, Macrocheira ginzanensis and Macrocheira yabei, both from the Miocene of Japan. The diverse taxonomic history is an important part of what these creatures are and how they evolved to be what they are today. These creatures are not isolated however, as they are the subject of fishery and are considered a delicacy. To prevent overfishing, conservation efforts are being put forth for to protect these creatures and their population from the dangers of overfishing.
Japanese spider crab-1