Immature Atlantic ghost crab (Ocypode quadrata) at Sandbridge, Virginia Beach, Virginia. The little ones exhibit pronounced cryptic coloring to give them a slight advantage against predators. Adult ghosties are able to burrow further from the strandline, and are a bit more protected. There is some evidence that ghost crab numbers are declining, probably due to human presence, especially in areas where vehicles are allowed on the beaches.
Immature Atlantic ghost crab (Ocypode quadrata) at Sandbridge, Virginia Beach, Virginia. The little ones exhibit pronounced cryptic coloring to give them a slight advantage against predators. Adult ghosties are able to burrow further from the strandline, and are a bit more protected. There is some evidence that ghost crab numbers are declining, probably due to human presence, especially in areas where vehicles are allowed on the beaches.
Atlantic ghost crab (Ocypode quadrata) at Sandbridge, Virginia Beach, Virginia. Please click photo for full view.
Etymology note: The genus name Ocypode is derived from a Greek root ὠκύπους, meaning swift-footed.
Atlantic ghost crab (Ocypode quadrata) at Sandbridge, Virginia Beach, Virginia. Please click photo for full view.
Etymology note: The genus name Ocypode is derived from a Greek root ὠκύπους, meaning swift-footed.
Atlantic sunrise series, No. 13.
Atlantic sunrise series, No. 13.
Atlantic sunrise series, No. 12.
Atlantic sunrise series, No. 12.
Atlantic sunrise series, No. 11.
Atlantic sunrise series, No. 11.
Dithyramb 