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What are those tiny crabs running on the sand in Thailand?
If you’ve ever walked along a Thai beach and noticed hundreds of little sand balls scattered across the shore, you’ve already met the sand bubbler crabs — one of the most common crabs on the beach in Thailand.
These small, fast creatures live in burrows just above the tide line. During low tide, they emerge to feed by sifting sand, rolling out tiny balls that form beautiful natural patterns.
Where can you find these beach crabs in Thailand?
You’ll find sand bubbler crabs and ghost crabs on almost every beach — especially along the Andaman Sea coast such as Phuket, Phi Phi Islands, Maiton Island, and Similan Islands.
At places like Phang Nga Bay or Bamboo Island, they thrive in clean, soft sand and help maintain the coastal ecosystem.
Explore these beaches with Love Andaman tours to spot them up close while enjoying crystal-clear water and coral life.
What types of beach crabs live in Thailand?
Here are a few common types you can see:
- Sand Bubbler Crab (Scopimera & Dotilla) – Tiny crabs that roll sand into round pellets while feeding.
- Ghost Crab (Ocypode ceratophthalma) – Pale-colored, fast runners that come out mostly at night.
- Hermit Crab – Known for using seashells as their homes; they are common in rocky areas and beach edges.
- Fiddler Crab – Found in mangrove or muddy beaches; males have one big claw they use to attract females.
Each of these species plays an important role in Thailand’s coastal food chain, helping break down organic matter and aerate the sand.
Why are beach crabs important to the Andaman Sea?
Crabs may be small, but they’re vital to the Andaman Sea ecosystem.
Their digging helps oxygenate sand, allowing microorganisms to thrive — a process that keeps beaches clean and healthy.
They’re also food for shorebirds and fish, keeping the marine food web balanced.
Can I see beach crabs during an island tour?
Yes. When you join eco-friendly trips like Phi Phi and Bamboo Island Tour or Maiton Island Day Trip, you can often see ghost crabs running at sunset or sand bubbler crabs decorating the beach in the morning.
These creatures are harmless — so take photos, not shells.
If you love marine life, you might also enjoy spotting Green Sea Turtles or Parrotfish during your snorkeling tours.
Tips for photographing crabs on the beach
- Go out early morning or late evening when crabs are most active.
- Keep a low angle to capture their tiny eyes and sand balls.
- Avoid using flash — it can scare them away.
- Stay still and let them come out naturally; patience rewards you with amazing close-up shots.
Learn More or Book a Trip
Love marine life? Join our eco-friendly island hopping tours in the Andaman Sea — from Similan to Surin Islands.
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