Lobodon carcinophaga

Crabeater Seal

2.2–2.6 meter
20–40 jaar
Niet bedreigd
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Crabeater Seal

Despite their name, crabeater seals don't eat crabs — they are highly specialized krill feeders, using their uniquely interlocking teeth to filter Antarctic krill from the water. They are the most numerous large mammal on Earth after humans, with an estimated population of 15–40 million individuals. Found exclusively in the pack ice zone surrounding Antarctica, they are often seen resting on ice floes, where they can appear remarkably relaxed and approachable.

Grootte

2.2–2.6 meter

Gewicht

200–300 kg

Levensduur

20–40 jaar

Status

Niet bedreigd

Waar je ze kunt vinden

Beste duiklocaties

Antarctic Peninsula Pack IceWeddell SeaRosszeeZuidelijke Shetlandeilanden

Duiktips

Crabeater seals are primarily seen from zodiacs and expedition vessels navigating pack ice. They rest on ice floes and can be approached by boat. Underwater encounters are rare. They are generally calm but may bare their teeth if approached too closely — a defensive display.

Beste seizoen

December–February (Antarctic summer), when pack ice is accessible by expedition vessels

Leefgebied

Antarctic pack ice zone, rarely coming ashore on the continent itself

Voeding

Almost exclusively Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba), filtered through uniquely adapted teeth
Wist je dat?

Leuke weetjes

1

They are the most abundant large mammal on Earth after humans, with up to 40 million individuals

2

Their teeth are uniquely lobed and interlocking — perfectly adapted for straining krill from seawater

3

Despite their name, they never eat crabs

4

Up to 80% of adults bear scars from leopard seal attacks survived during youth

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