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AssetID: 36029957

Headline: Zoo Breeds Tiny Vampire Crab

Caption: Don't have nightmares, but Devon's Paignton Zoo has bred vampire crabs for the first time. But do not worry too much - this amazing photo, taken by Paignton Zoo photographer Eleanor Stobbart, shows the true size of this tiny crab perched on a ten pence coin. The Lower Vertebrates & Invertebrates team are overjoyed with their new addition to the family. Keeper Lauren Lane is a big fan: “They are totally amazing! They’re small, active, colourful crabs that live in freshwater in the forests of Java and Indonesia. They are threatened by over-collection for the pet trade. The species was only formally described in 2015.” Paignton Zoo staff collected adults and juvenile crabs at the beginning of December from Chester Zoo. With the recent hatching of some 60 youngsters, there are now around 80 to look after. Lauren again: “The females carry the eggs and then they hatch as little ready-to-go crabs. We don’t really see the egg stage as the girls stay hidden. We hope that lots of the hatchlings will survive. We will split them into smaller groups to reduce the risk of them eating each other.” The vampire crabs will be among the species guests will be able to see when the revamped Investigate bug house opens later in the year. Paignton Zoo spokesman Philip Knowling explains: "This is a vampire crab. With its purple body, orange pincers and piercing pale eyes, it’s a nightmarish vision. And a crab that’s also a vampire? Days out at the beach will never be the same. "You may not have heard of a vampire crab, though it’s a species popular with aquarists – in fact, illegal over-collection for the pet trade is a real threat to the species."

Keywords: odd,oddity,offbeat,funny,LOL,quirky,weird,amazing,interesting,cool,humour

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