The fiddler crab lives on muddy tropical beaches. It digs small burrows in the part of the beach that will remain dry during low tide. When the tide comes in, it emerges to repair its burrow and feed on algae in the mud.
Each member of the colony defends its own territory. After repairing its hiding spot and securing a good meal, the male positions itself at the entrance of the burrow and waves its enormous claw, which has a lighter color than the rest of its body. This is a clear signal for other males to stay away and for females, indicating that they will be welcomed.
“You cannot defend what you do not love, and you cannot love what you do not know.”