Size

Length (exluding antennae): 15-45cm (6-18").

Recognition Characters

Carapace is covered with strong spines. Large horns rise over each eye. Antennae are nearly as long as body.

Color

Coloration separable into 2 categories (1) lightly colored individuals from gray and tan to shades of green and light brown. (2) more often darkly colored with deep shades of red, brown, or blue. Tail spotted on each segment with yellow dots.

Habitat & Depth

Reefs and rocky outcroppings. From 1m-80m.

Distribution at GRNMS

Rare at GRNMS. More common on deeper reefs off Georgia. Individuals can be quite large.

Geographic Range

North to North Carolina, South to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Gulf of Mexico and Bermuda

Behavior & Notes

Hide in reef recesses during day and forage and migrate at night.

Synonyms

References

Humann 1992a, Ruppert and Fox 1988, Williams 1984