Stone Crab Speciation
Two species of stone crabs exist in the Southeastern United States: Menippe mercenaria in the peninsula of Florida, and Menippe adina in the northern and western Gulf of Mexico. The two species differ in coloration and genetic makeup; they also differ somewhat in reproduction, salinity and temperature tolerance, and ecology. The table and pictures below show the differences in color pattern and habitat.
M. mercenaria
Body and Claw Color: Deep chocolate to maroon
Body and Claw Markings: Usually solid, occasional mottling of light brown
Leg Color and Markings: Solid deep chocolate to maroon
Habitat: Limestone sand, rocky outcrops, seagrass beds
M. adina
Body and Claw Color: Tan to light or medium gray
Body and Claw Markings: Black spotted, spots usually small but uniform
Leg Color and Markings: Dark brown, distinct white bands
Habitat: Limestone sand, rocky outcrops, seagrass beds