Govind Tekale
Strange and Beautiful is the world of insects and creatures in nature. Let us meet Strawberry Claws, a large new-to-science species of hermit crab recently described by Queensland Museum scientists.
It was only natural the crab was given the scientific name Strigopagurus fragarchela, which is derived from the Latin word ‘strawberry’ (Fragaria), combined with ‘chela’ to highlight the bright red color fastness of the claws and walking legs.
The hermit crab, scientifically described by Queensland Museum Honorary Peter Davie and QM (Queensland Museum) Collection Manager Dr Marissa Mc Namrat. It is found in relatively deep water (120–260 m) off the coast of southeast Queensland. The crab has been given the common name ‘Strawberry-clawed Hermit’.
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According to Dr. Mc Namara, the new species has several highly distinctive features. It’s bright red claws are the most striking one. Additionally, it has also evolved its own unique method of producing underwater sound (stridulating), much like cicadas do in the air. Dr. McNamara said, “We knew straight away this was a special hermit crab, and we quickly gave it the nickname ‘Strawberry Claws’.”
Australia is a stronghold of four endemic species, two of which are only found in Queensland. The new hermit crab has only been collected by trawler catches, but they are without doubt important members of the rich biological communities of the continental shelf off southeastern Queensland.
While commenting on the research work of Peter Davie and Dr. Marissa McNamara, QM CEO Dr. Jim Thomson. Dr. Thomson said, “The work of the scientists and researchers at QM helps in providing a record of our state’s biodiversity for future generations.” Thomson believes that the Queensland Museum history collections are more than just preserved specimens—they are vital tools for scientific discovery, conservation, and public education.
This discovery culminated in a research paper that was recently published in Memoirs of the Queensland Museum.
