🦀 The crustaceans of Baltrum

Barnacles are marine crustaceans that, as adults, have a very different appearance from the classic crustacean. In the past, some were wrongly classified as mussels, even though they are not related to molluscs. Their larvae are free-swimming and visually resemble typical crustaceans. The species pictured originally comes from the waters around Australia and New Zealand, but has also appeared in the North Sea since the 1940s and has been multiplying rapidly ever since.

Sand hoppers (Talitrus saltator) are more clearly recognizable as crustaceans. They hop around on the sand, feeding on all sorts of organic matter. While I was taking the video, one nibbled on my hand, but I still managed to keep the camera relatively still.

The common pill bug (Armadillidium vulgare) is a woodlouse with a worldwide distribution. It's very common on Baltrum, and as a child, I enjoyed watching and making them roll up into a ball by touch. Not everyone knows that woodlice are crustaceans.

The shore crab (Carcinus maenas) is probably the most clearly identifiable crustacean. Its lateral locomotion evolved because it allows it to move more easily with its broad body. Firstly, it fits better through narrow spaces, and secondly, its body offers less resistance to water movement. In the video, you can see sand hoppers searching for organic materials on and around the crab.

The common hermit crab (Pagurus bernhardus) is another crustacean that requires a closer look. It lives in a snail shell. When the tide recedes, hermit crabs and shore crabs either try to follow the water or burrow into the wet sand to survive until high tide.

🤗 For a more nuanced discussion, please feel free to use the comments section, private messages or the anonymous contact form on my website.

🏖 No waves to disrupt the vibe.
🌅 Seagulls judge. The sun sets.
🌊 I don't mind.

✨️ Sand in my hair,
💔 empty shells crack everywhere.
🦶 Step on and get the feeling!
🐚 Love is blind.

🌓 The tide is low but I'm letting go.
❤️‍🩹 I'm gonna be my number one.
🌗 The tide is low but I′m letting go.
❤️ I′m gonna be my number one.

– Atomic Sloth Puppy

🤗 For a more nuanced discussion, please feel free to use the comments section, private messages or the anonymous contact form on my website.