Scyra acutifrons Dana 1851

This majid crab has a flattened rostrum that is longer than wide and is widest near the middle. The carapace is triangular, has a projection or lump near the two posterolateral corners, but has no sharp projection or shelf on the anterolateral margin. The chelipeds of males are usually longer than the walking legs, slender, and tipped with orange. When at rest the crab often sits with its chelae near its mouth and its very long "elbows" projecting out in front. The carapace is brown or tan but may be overgrown with sponges and bryozoans. Carapace width to 4.5 cm.

How to Distinguish from Similar Species: Oregonia bifurca and Hyas lyratus have a lyre-shaped body and a toothed expansion of the carapace on both sides of the anterior half, plus the rostrum is widest at the base. Pugettia gracilis, Pugettia producta, and Pugettia richii have a sharp projection to the side near the middle of the carapace.

Rocky areas, especially around boulders densely covered with invertebrates. Sometimes found on pilings.

Geographical Range: Kodiak, Alaska to Punta San Carlos, Mexico. Uncommon south of Monterey Bay, CA

Depth Range: Mostly subtidal, to 220 m

Biology/Natural History: Feeds on detritus and sessile invertebrates. Predators include rockfish, kelp greenling Hexagrammos decagrammus, and sculpins. Seems to be often found around sea anemones. May decorate slightly by putting a few pieces of algae on its rostrum. Other algae and bryozoans seem to overgrow the carapace naturally. This crab often sits with the anterior end pointed down. Females may carry eggs nearly any time of year. May reproduce several times a year. This species has a terminal molt so full-grown adults will no longer grow