Spiny Rock Crab

Actaea polyacantha is a species of crab that belongs to the family Xanthidae and was first described by Heller in 1861. These small crabs are typically found off the coast of the Philippine Islands, particularly around Mactan and Mindanao. They inhabit ocean depths ranging from 100 to 250 meters (328 to 820 feet).

Individuals of Actaea polyacantha can grow to a size of approximately 16 to 18 millimeters (about 0.63 to 0.71 inches). This species is characterized by its white appendages and its carapace, which is adorned with short spines. Despite their distinctive appearance, there is limited information available about their dietary habits, behavior, and ecology. Moreover, they are seldom mentioned in terms of aquarium keeping, and little is known from public sources about maintaining them in such environments.