Despite being called Elegant Crinoid Squat Lobsters, these animals are more closely related to Hermit Crabs than Lobsters.
They are commensal species, which means they live alongside Crinoids and benefit from the relationship. The Crinoids provide the Squat Lobsters with protection and an ideal place to feed, while the Squat Lobsters help to clean the Crinoids.
The Squat Lobsters can survive outside of the Crinoids, but their lifespan will be shorter because they will be more vulnerable to predators. They are generally found in shallow waters.
This critter was spotted off the coast of Puerto Galera in the Philippines.
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