Species Ligia oceanica - European Seaslater

Common Sea Slater

Author of species is Linnaeus 1767

up to 30 mm

Oval shaped, dorso-ventrally flattened body that is twice as long as broad. The antennae are approximately two thirds the length of the body; at least 10 segments on antennal flagellum. Seven externally visible thoracic segments. Seven pairs of walking legs. Two large uropods project from the posterior margin of the telson, each with two long processes or rami. Very large and obvious black eyes. Body color is gray to olive.

native to w. Europe, adventive in NA (ne. US: ME-MA)(1)

rocky coasts under stones and in crevices

Mature by one year of age, but in most cases breeding will not begin until the sea slater is at least two years old. Breeding takes place in spring and summer. Most individuals only breed once, and have a life span of around two and a half to three years.