Want to see the world's biggest crab? It is in Santos and has giant legs
The Japanese spider crab, the largest arthropod in the world, is on display at the Museu do Mar in Santos, Brazil.
The Japanese spider crab (Macrocheira kaempferi) is currently exhibited at the Museu do Mar in Santos, São Paulo, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to see this remarkable marine creature. Measuring nearly two meters across in terms of leg span, this specimen epitomizes the title of the world's largest arthropod. It is important to note that Japanese spider crabs are typically found at great depths in Japanese waters and are captured only twice annually for commercial purposes.
Luiz Alonso Ferreira, the marine biologist and director of the Museu do Mar, highlighted the rarity of their sighting in the wild and the special nature of the exhibition in Santos. As children and adults alike gather to marvel at the giant crab, it's also an opportunity for educational outreach about marine biology and conservation issues. The giant crab serves as a reminder of the incredible and often unexplored biodiversity found in the ocean's depths.
The installation of the Japanese spider crab at the museum not only attracts tourists but also enhances local cultural heritage in Santos. Being able to observe such a unique species fosters deeper awareness and appreciation for marine ecosystems. The museum aims to use this display as a vehicle for environmental education, advocating the importance of preserving ocean life against modern threats such as overfishing and habitat loss.