This crab is similar to Nectocarcinus integrifrons but has the small notch between the eyes and is rougher in appearance. Occasionally can be caught in cray-pots and can also be seen sold in fish markets from time to time.

At a glance

Habitat Can be found underwater on the seafloor out to a depth of around 30m
Size Can grow to around 90mm
Origin Endemic
Distribution Southern Australia including around Tasmania
Descriptions
Distribution
Southern Australia including around Tasmania
Habitat
Can be found underwater on the seafloor out to a depth of around 30m
Size
Can grow to around 90mm

Identification

This crab has a deep reddish brown body and legs covered with short setae (hairs) described as being densely pilose giving it a velvet like appearance that gives it is common name. 

The eyes are reddish brown although this feature seems to be ignored is most identification keys with other characteristics being favoured.

The frontal margin is almost straight and is tuberculated with a notch between the red eyes, there are 4 anterolateral teeth often being more like sharp spines but can be worn

Common Name Velvet Crab
Aliases Rough Rock Crab,
Origin Endemic
Conservation No Conservation Status
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Distribution and map

Distribution provided by The Atlas of Living Australia

Classification

Classification

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumArthropoda
SubphylumCrustacea
SuperclassMulticrustacea
ClassMalacostraca
SubclassEumalacostraca
SuperorderEucarida
OrderDecapoda
SuborderPleocyemata
InfraorderBrachyura
SectionEubrachyura
SuperfamilyPortunoidea
FamilyCarcinidae
GenusNectocarcinus
SpeciesNectocarcinus tuberculosus
Synonyms

Synonyms

There are no known synonyms for this species
References and dates
Original View Original Descriptions
Bibliography View page references
Added Thu 1 Jan 2026 @ 05:55 AM
Updated Thu 1 Jan 2026 @ 05:55 AM
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Files
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26 Common Crabs of Tasmania Poster
An A3 poster of the 26 common crabs of Tasmania
 1.0.1 8.2 Mon 12 Jan 2026 Mon 12 Jan 2026 Download Info

Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into trying to identify and ensure accurate identifications are made, and that the listed Descriptions, Sizes, Habitats and Distribution information is as accurate and valid as possible. Unfortunately, information in this arena is ever changing and as such no guarantee can be offered that it is correct or currently valid — the information is provided as a guide, and it is always suggested that you do a little research to ensure you have the latest and most accurate information. View the references or bibliography. Feedback and comments on the information provided are always welcome.