Axiidae

Axiidae is a family of thalassinidean crustaceans, commonly known as mud lobsters, ghost shrimp, or burrowing shrimp. They are found in marine environments worldwide, typically inhabiting burrows in soft sediments like mud, sand, and seagrass beds.

Axiids are characterized by their robust bodies, elongated abdomens, and asymmetrical chelipeds (claws), with one claw usually being significantly larger than the other. This asymmetry is often related to their burrowing behavior. The larger claw is used for digging and defense, while the smaller claw is used for feeding.

These crustaceans are primarily detritivores and scavengers, feeding on organic matter and small organisms found in the sediment. They play an important role in bioturbation, the disturbance of sediment by living organisms, which helps to oxygenate the sediment and recycle nutrients.

The family Axiidae includes numerous genera and species, exhibiting a wide range of morphological and ecological diversity. Identification to the species level often requires detailed examination of their appendages and carapace morphology. They are ecologically important in coastal ecosystems, influencing sediment dynamics and serving as a food source for larger predators.