Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Plant Sciences, Zoology & Evolution => Topic started by: DoctorBeaver on 09/07/2007 20:07:41

Title: Why do crabs walk sideways?
Post by: DoctorBeaver on 09/07/2007 20:07:41

Advantageous characteristics evolve, disadvantageous ones die out. So what advantage does walking sideways give crabs? How did that evolve?

And are there any other animals that perambulate in such a manner?

Title: Why do crabs walk sideways?
Post by: JimBob on 09/07/2007 23:56:37

Do you remember the song "crabs walk sideways and lobsters walk straight ... ?"

Both are crustaceans, and there is a huge number of shrimp that also walk straight so I doubt there is much advantage. But the only advantage I can think of is the surprise it gives to predators that normally pray on "straight" walking critters.

Title: Why do crabs walk sideways?
Post by: DoctorBeaver on 10/07/2007 00:01:37

That's better than anything I can think of.

Title: Why do crabs walk sideways?
Post by: paul.fr on 10/07/2007 07:07:41

I refer the honerable gentleman, to a question previously aske.
http://www.thenakedscientists.com/forum/index.php?topic=6635.0

Title: Why do crabs walk sideways?
Post by: DoctorBeaver on 10/07/2007 09:32:14

Thanks Paul, I hadn't seen that thread; or, at least, I don't remember having seen it. It explains the mechanics but not the why.

Title: Why do crabs walk sideways?
Post by: paul.fr on 10/07/2007 11:52:31

Quote from: DoctorBeaver on 10/07/2007 09:32:14

Thanks Paul, I hadn't seen that thread; or, at least, I don't remember having seen it. It explains the mechanics but not the why.

if only i knew why, the story of my life...why, why why