Malaysia, the land famous for its rich biodiversity blessed with lush jungles and an ever-growing population of flora and fauna. In its richness is one species often overlooked by many, the ever-so-mystical and magical realm of our eight-legged aquatic friends.
In March of this year, a new species of vampire crab was discovered deep in the jungles of Gunung Jerai, Kedah. The crab is a freshwater species and adorned with ambulatory legs and a hard upper shell with legs that are half dark grey to almost black, with numerous small specks of blue and white. Shockingly, the crab sizes up to only 2 inches! That’s almost the same size as one M&M.
As for its name, the fifth species known of the Geosesarma species has been named the Geosesarma bunian, after its elusive nature. The name derives from the Malay term “bunian”, used to describe the beautifully dressed and elusive hidden people of the forest. The crab was named after the bunian due to its rich colours as well it escaping scientific attention up until recently.
It’s unknown when the species was discovered, but the Geosesarma bunian was collected in burrows on the slope alongside explorer’s jeep track at night. It was specifically found towards the summit of Gunung Jerai, at an altitude of about 1150 metres above sea level.
Many locals have voiced excitement over the discovery of the new species. What do you think about the new species of the vampire crab?
Source: Twitter, Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum
Alyssa Gabrielle contributed to this article
