The Japanese spider crab, Macrocheira kaempferi, is the largest living arthropod; fully grown it can reach a leg span of almost 4 m (13 feet), a body size of up to 37 cm (15 inches) and a weight of up to 20 kg (44 pounds). The crab's natural habitat is on the bottom of the Pacific Ocean (some 300–400 m deep) around Japan, where it feeds on dead animals and shellfish. It is believed to have a life expectancy of up to 100 years.[1]
Because it is a particularly old species of crab, it is often referred to as a living fossil. Currently, this is the only species of the genus Macrocheira, but there have been two reports of other fossil specimens
The Japanese spider crab is caught using small trawling nets, and is often eaten salted and steamed. It is caught in the Sagami, Suruga, and Tosa bays and also around the Izu Islands. Catching of the crab is forbidden during the spring, when it lays its eggs.
The Japanese spider crab is also used for research and ornamental purposes. It has a gentle disposition and is often reared in aquaria.
WOHOO I getting one and going to put in my Nano!!!