Graceful Crab
Scientific Name: Metacarcinus gracilis
Category: other
Brief Description
A medium-sized crab found in the intertidal and subtidal zones of the Pacific Northwest, identifiable by its smooth carapace and lack of hair on its legs.
Characteristics
Smooth, oval-shaped carapace that is widest at the 9th tooth. It typically has a purplish-brown to tan color. Unlike the Dungeness crab, its walking legs are slender and lack the characteristic hair or 'fringe' found on other species.
Habitat
Found in sandy or muddy bottoms, eelgrass beds, and occasionally rocky intertidal areas in bays and estuaries like Puget Sound.
When to Find It
Year-round; best observed during low tide when they may be trapped in tide pools or shallow water.
Conservation Status
N/A
Ecological Role
Acts as both a predator of small invertebrates and a scavenger. It serves as an important food source for larger fish, octopuses, and sea birds.
Easily Confused With
Dungeness Crab (Metacarcinus magister) - Dungeness have white-tipped claws and hairy legs; Red Rock Crab (Cancer productus) - Red Rock crabs have black-tipped claws and a much thicker, brick-red shell.
Observation Tips
Look in eelgrass beds during very low tides. Handle with care if necessary, as they can pinch, though they are generally less aggressive than Red Rock crabs.
Interesting Facts
Despite its name, it is a close relative of the commercially famous Dungeness crab, but it stays smaller and is not a primary target for commercial fishing.
User Notes
Puget Sound