The Uniqueness of Endemic Animals Canary Crab (Birgus latro) as The Largest Crab Species in The Phylum Arthropoda

Abstract

Birgus latro or walnut crab is the largest land arthropod animal in the world, this crab has a unique and complex anatomy and body morphology that supports its survival. The research objective was to describe the anatomy, morphology, habitat, behavior, role, nutrition, reproductive system, immune system, gas exchange system, blood circulation, digestive system, excretory system, and Birgus latro osmoregulation. The research method used is literature review. This type of research is a form of qualitative descriptive research with review techniques from research journals on Birgus latro in Indonesia. This research was conducted by analyzing the results of research that had been published nationally and internationally relating to the life of Birgus latro. Walnut crabs live in areas that are damp and dark and avoid the sun to reduce the occurrence of evaporation on their bodies. Hard body parts such as shells, claws, and skin contain lots of calcium and chitin for self- defense and climbing coconut trees. The circulatory system of the walnut crab is open, this crab is also an osmoregulatory animal. The advice that the author can give for the preservation of walnut crabs is to provide outreach to the community regarding the importance of maintaining and preserving the existence of walnut crabs which are almost extinct. Establishing a walnut shell conservation center must also be carried out by the government to maintain the coconut crab population, as well as cultivate walnut crabs with the right procedure.

Population of Coconut Crab (Birgus latro) in Fam Island, Raja Ampat, Indonesia

“…As said (Mardiana et al, 2023)the effective time for walnut crabs to find food is during drizzling rain, because low rainfall does not harm walnut crabs and makes it easier for them to breathe and to find food. The walnut crab will hide in its nest if there is heavy rain because it will endanger its life.…”

“…This crab is the center of attention because of its large size and unique behavior. Walnut crabs live in areas that are damp and dark and avoid the sun to reduce the occurrence of evaporation on their bodies (Mardiana et al, 2023).…”