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Traskorchestia traskiana
Size:
Traskorchestia traskiana reaches a maximum of about 2cm at full maturity.
Range:
Traskorchestia traskiana is found on sandy or rocky protected beaches from Alaska to California. They are more predominant in the north, while another species, Megalorchestia californiana is more dominant in the south.
Habitat:
Traskorchestia traskiana lives under decomposing seaweed, or driftwood on the upper reaches of a sandy beach. They are typically found at the borders of bays, estuaries and salt marshes, but can also occur on protected beaches of the open coast.
Misidentification:
Megalorchestia californiana are often mistaken for Traskorchestia traskiana but are up to 2.5cm, have a grayish white body, and antennae which are pinkish orange. Traskorchestia traskiana are usually dark gray and its antennae are not distinctively colored.
Predators:
Most larger organisms that are quick enough to catch the Traskorchestia traskiana will eat them. They do live somewhat peacefully with small crabs and worms, often being found under the same rocks. Their main predators are larger crustaceans, and seashore birds. Since they usually are found on the upper reaches of beaches they are not an easy catch for marine organisms.
Suggested Reading:
Kozloff, Eugene (1996). Seashore Life of the North Pacific Coast. University of Washington Press, Seattle, pp. 268, 280; pl. 19.
Last updated Thursday, August 24, 2006, by Lisa Ferrier
