Malta | 1986 | 5 Cents | Qabru

 


Maltese freshwater crab - Qabru

 

  


   

The Maltese freshwater crab, or Qabru, is a rare, endemic decapod found only in select freshwater sites in Malta and Gozo. Reaching about 80 mm in width, it is greenish-grey with purple-tinged legs. It inhabits perennial streams, pools, and springs, particularly in areas such as Imtaħleb, Baħrija, Għajn Żejtuna, San Martin, and Lunzjata Valley. When threatened, it hides under rocks, vegetation, or in its own deep burrows, which may extend over 50 cm into mud or clay and are partly flooded. Its population has declined in recent years.


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