Lophozozymus pictor
The Xanthidae family of crabs is large, with species of different sizes, colors, and markings, all of which play important roles in the benthic ecosystem of coral reefs. The mosaic reef crab lives on coral reefs at depths of 30 meters or less. Its carapace has a red mosaic pattern. However, such a striking color is a warning. It does not sting or bite, but if ingested, an adult crab with a shell width of 8 centimeters has enough toxin to kill 45,000 mice. Moreover, the toxins are not destroyed by heating or cooking. These toxins are neurotoxins. Once ingested, you can only pray that you have not eaten too much and do your best to induce vomiting to reduce the amount that is absorbed by the body. This crab has naturally been dubbed the “toxic reef crab” or “thunder crab.” If you catch it in the wild, do not eat it. Instead, quickly release it, to protect yourself.
