Watch 'Pom-Pom' Crabs Fight with Anemone-Tipped Claws

Crabs can stimulate sea anemones to reproduce asexually—the first known example of such behavior, a new study says.

In the shallows of the Indo-Pacific dwell tiny cheerleaders: Crabs that hold sea anemones on each of their claws, earning them the nickname pom-pom crabs.

These colorful and stinging accoutrements, attached to their claws with delicate hooks, likely help the coin-size crustaceans fend off predators. The anemones, in turn, benefit from getting scraps of leftover food from the crab. (Also see "Natural Bling: 6 Amazing Animals That Decorate Themselves.")

Unlike most crabs, which have robust claws used for grabbing, eating, and defense, Lybia crabs have claws like little tweezers—the perfect size and shape for holding anemones.

Now, a new study reveals that when a pom-pom crabs lacks an anemone, it will steal one from another crab. Then, both victim and victor

DON'T MISS THE REST OF THIS STORY!
Create a free account to continue and get unlimited access to hundreds of Nat Geo articles, plus newsletters.

Create your free account to continue reading

No credit card required. Unlimited access to free content.
Or get a Premium Subscription to access the best of Nat Geo - just $19
SUBSCRIBE

Read This Next

Is banning fishing bad for fishermen? Not in this marine reserve
SeaWorld violated the Animal Welfare Act. Why is it still open?
'World’s worst shipwreck' was bloodier than we thought

Go Further

Subscriber Exclusive Content

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet