Four new crab species discovered in the Philippines
April 24, 2012
Scientists have discovered more new creatures in the Philippines - four species of purple crabs. The International Business Times reports these crabs, which are only about one to two inches wide, were found on the Philippine island of Palawan, which is one of the most biodiverse islands in the archipelago. This island's natural environment is threatened by human interference and industrialization.
"The smaller the remaining natural habitat the greater is the risk to endemic fauna and flora," Henrik Freitag, study author from Senckenberg Museum of Zoology in Germany, told IB Times. "Even minor environmental changes can lead to extinctions. It is all the more important to do research in this region and show that biodiversity of these islands is unique and worth protecting."
The AFP reports these newly discovered crustaceans are found in streams, and they tend to hunt for food at night. The scientists claim the bright purple hue of these crabs is used solely to help the crabs find each other.
Those who want to hear more about these tiny crabs can make calls to the Philippines to get the latest updates from their friends.