Millions of Baby Red Crabs Begin Migration on Christmas Island
Jan. 18, 2018 - Every year, tens of millions of baby red crabs develop off the coast of Christmas Island. After hatching from their eggs, they live in the sea for a month as larvae, before returning to the shoreline. This process begins precisely when the high tide turns between the last quarter and new moon. During this period, tides are more stable. This allows the baby crabs the best chance of survival on their march back to the rain forest. The babies will be joining a population of around 120 million crabs that cover the rain forest floor.
Transcript
Every year, tens of millions of baby red crabs develop off the coast of Christmas Island.
After hatching from their eggs, they live in the sea for a month as larvae, before returning to the shoreline.
This process begins precisely when the high tide turns between the last quarter and new moon.
During this period, tides are more stable.
This allows the baby crabs the best chance of survival on their march back to the rain forest.
The babies will be joining a population of around 120 million crabs that cover the rain forest floor.
