Boxer crabs use sea anemones to keep away predators. They use boxing moves to protect themselves.
Boxer crabs and sea anemones form one of the most unusual and astounding symbiotic relationships in the entire animal kingdom. These crabs wield sea anemones attached to their claws in horizontal motions as they move. This colorful display serves as a natural deterrent to predators, and when directly threatened, the crab will utilize the sea anemone in a forward, ‘punching’ movement towards the aggressor. The sea anemone’s stinging tentacles serve as the ultimate defense mechanism for the crab.
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