hämähäkkiravut

Hämähäkkiravut is a Finnish term that translates to "spider crabs" in English. This term broadly refers to a family of marine crustaceans belonging to the infraorder Brachyura, which encompasses all true crabs. Spider crabs are characterized by their relatively long, slender legs and small, rounded bodies, giving them a spindly appearance that resembles that of a spider.

The family Majidae, to which most species commonly called spider crabs belong, is diverse and found in oceans worldwide, from shallow coastal waters to the deep sea. Their appearance varies significantly among species, with some having smooth carapaces and others being covered in spines, tubercles, or even vegetation that they attach to their shells for camouflage. This camouflage strategy is particularly important for spider crabs as it helps them avoid predators.

Spider crabs are often omnivorous, feeding on algae, detritus, and small invertebrates. Their feeding habits and habitats can differ greatly depending on the specific species. For example, the European spider crab (Maja squinado) is a familiar sight in the Northeast Atlantic and Mediterranean, while the Japanese spider crab (Macrocheira kaempferi) is the largest living arthropod and inhabits the waters around Japan. Despite their somewhat intimidating appearance, many spider crabs are relatively harmless to humans, though larger species can deliver a strong pinch. They play a role in marine ecosystems as both prey and predators.