Sheep Crab in Kelp Forest

Sheep Crab, aka Spider Crab, is the largest crab found on the California coast.
 
Scientific Name: Loxorhynchus grandis
 
Southern California’s incredible Giant Kelp Forests are home to a rich array of marine life. These towering seaweeds provide structure, food, and hiding places for more than 1,000 species of plants and animals. Known for its size, it can reach over 200 feet in length and grow as fast as 1.5 feet per day. Giant kelp is able to grow vertically due to gas-filled bladders known as pneumatocysts, which keep the upper portions of the algae afloat. 
 
Scientific Name: Macrocystis pyrifera