Encounter Dromia personata, commonly known as the Sleepy Crab, in the waters around Malta. Found in the North Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, and parts of the northeastern Atlantic Ocean, this crab’s slow movements have earned it the name “sleepy.”
The Sleepy Crab can be identified by its short hairs, giving it a felted appearance. The pubescence is dark brown, while the tips of its chelipeds are pale pink or white. Juveniles display varied colors. Its carapace is sub-globose and dorsally vaulted, with prominent sub-median lobes and a conspicuous excretory pore.
Dromia personata features a carapace measuring up to 65 mm x 78 mm in males and 63 mm x 73 mm in females. It has stout, equal chelipeds, with dense long setae on the inner surface of the propodus. The fourth and fifth pereiopods are flattened and subdorsal. The last two pairs of legs are used by young crabs to hold a sponge for camouflage.
The Sleepy Crab inhabits caves from the lower shore to depths of 8 meters, occasionally reaching up to 100 meters. It is mostly found in rocky and sandy environments. Known for its slow movements, the Sleepy Crab often remains hidden under rocks or sponges. It is a solitary creature, coming out primarily at night to feed on small invertebrates.
The Sleepy Crab uses its last two pairs of legs to hold a piece of sponge or other material over its back, effectively camouflaging itself from predators. This behavior makes it difficult to spot and adds an extra layer of protection against predators like octopus, starfish, and various fish.
Diving in Malta offers a chance to encounter the Sleepy Crab in its natural habitat. Some of the best sites to see these crabs include:
Billingshurst Cave – Located near Reqqa Point on Gozo’s north coast, this cave is a prime spot for observing Sleepy Crabs at a depth of around 16 meters.
Crocodile Rock – Situated off the coast of Dwejra on Gozo’s west coast, this natural offshore reef provides excellent opportunities to spot these crabs.
Mgarr ix-Xini – On Gozo’s south coast, this site is known for its rich marine life and is another great location for finding Sleepy Crabs.
These crabs can be observed all year round, making any dive in these locations a potential opportunity to see them.
