blue crab
The blue crab is got its name because of its blue-tinted claws. Its shell is actually a brownish color, and mature females have red highlights on the tips of their claws. Their scientific name, Callinectes sapidus, means "savory beautiful swimmer." Blue crabs are found in coastal lagoons and like regions. Close relatives of the shrimp and lobster, these sea-floor dwelling creatures are quick to use their sharp front pincers to make a meal out of just about anything that comes their way. Large males can reach 9 inches in shell width.
digestive system
The mouth- The claws, or also known as the chelicera, bring the food towards the mouth. Inside the mouth there are three jaws, one holds the food, then moves the food to the second and third jaws where it is torn into smaller pieces. It is then sent down the esophagus to the stomach.
The stomach- the stomach of the crab is very unique. The stomach grinds the food using hard plates and bumps, as well as digestive juices to breakdown food so it can be absorbed into the hepatopancreas.
The intestines- The intestines simply digest food further with enzymes and other digestive fluids. The undigested food is then sent to the anus for excretion.
Here is an example of a blue crab eating its prey.
The stomach- the stomach of the crab is very unique. The stomach grinds the food using hard plates and bumps, as well as digestive juices to breakdown food so it can be absorbed into the hepatopancreas.
The intestines- The intestines simply digest food further with enzymes and other digestive fluids. The undigested food is then sent to the anus for excretion.
Here is an example of a blue crab eating its prey.