Since 2006, the Okinawa Churaumi Research Center has been conducting monitoring research on coconut crabs at Ocean Expo Park, the northernmost range of this species.

The study applied techniques developed in previous research. By using patterns on the shells of coconut crabs to identify individuals, it was shown that the majority of coconut crabs do not range over more than 200 meters even over many years.

Through this research it is clear that this species has a strong sedentary behavior. To protect the coconut crab in the long term and to conserve it as an endangered species, sanctuaries for the crabs are effective and important.

Coconut crab identified at Ocean Expo Park

Name of author

Shin-ichiro Oka, Kei Miyamoto, Shohei Matsuzaki (Bold letter: Foundation Staff)

Title

Long-term sedentary behavior of coconut crab in their northernmost range

Journal title

International Journal of Pure and Applied Zoology