Yeti Crabs

Yeti Crab (Kiwa hirsuta) is a crustacean,  discovered in 2005 in the South Pacific Ocean near The Easter Island during the Census of Marine Life,which is a search for several new species of fish and animals alike.. It is approximately 15 cm (5.9 in) long, is notable for the quantity of silky blond setae (resembling fur, hair like struture) covering its pereiopods (thoracic legs, including claws) that attracts bacteria, their main diet.


Note, the first species of Yeti Crab, Kiwa hirsuta, is NOT considered a cryptid, as such a creatures were not envisioned, sighted, or reported yet. However, the two species of Yeti Crab that were discovered post would be classified as former cryptids, since these creatures were first recorded and debated before their actual discoveries and scientific classifications.

During June 2006, scientist discovered a second species of Yeti crab, which they formally dubbed Kiwa puravida. They first observed it swinging its bacteria-laden chelipeds rhythmically at a Costa Rican methane seep.

It lives in colonies close to underwater geysers. It is noted to have long arms covered in a Setae or "Bristles" that looks like white fur, giving it it's name. The hairs on their arm contain a bacteria capable of removing toxins from the output of the hydrothermal vents.

As for weight and diet, the Yeti Crab can grow to be 5 or 6 inches long, and can weigh anywhere from 2 to ~5 pounds.

Strict diet

Thurber confirmed that the bacteria are the crab’s main food source. Carbon isotopes and fatty acids in the crab’s body match organisms that get their nourishment without the sun’s energy, rather than those that rely on photosynthesis.