I found a surprising number of the Socotra freshwater crab (Socotrapotamon socotrense) at this permanent pool of water. Some were under water, some were wandering out in the open, others were preparing for a day hidden from the sun under rocks or in cracks.
Yet another example of the incredible diversity of life on Socotra, as this is not the only endemic species found here. A second species was discovered in 1997, Potamon pseudocardisoma (Cumberlidge & Wranik, 2002), very distinguishable from P. Socotrensis by the bright band around the edge of the carapace or shell. It’s also larger than the other species and also lives in a very different environment. Opposed to streams and ponds it’s range is limited to the limestone landscape and its rich network of caves and hollows carrying water.
A third species, P. nojidensis (Apel & Brandis, 2000) was recorded for the first time in 1999. Found in western Noged plain (southern coast), in shallow rock pools. Distinguished by the morphology of the male copulatory organs.
Endemic.
Last updated on 21 June 2024
