BARBADOS INVERTEBRATES

Dwarf Green Millipede (Anadenobolus Sp.)

The Dwarf Green Millipede is a small, colorful species of millipede found in the Caribbean. They are known for their vivid green coloration and numerous legs, which they use to navigate their environment. These harmless creatures play an essential role in breaking down decaying plant matter, aiding in nutrient recycling.

Leaf Footed Bug

Leaf Footed Bugs are named for their unique, leaf-like hind leg extensions. These insects are plant feeders and can be found throughout the Caribbean. They have a striking appearance, with vibrant color patterns that can serve as a warning to predators.

Chocolate Millipedes (Rhinocricus sp.)

Chocolate Millipedes are aptly named for their dark brown coloration, resembling a piece of chocolate. These arthropods are decomposers, feeding on decaying organic matter and returning nutrients to the soil. They are harmless to humans and beneficial to the ecosystem.

Caribbean Ghost Crab (Ocypode quadrata)

The Caribbean Ghost Crab is a small, nocturnal crab known for its pale yellow color, which allows it to blend seamlessly with its sandy surroundings. These crabs are highly skilled burrowers and can dig intricate tunnels to escape the heat and predators.

Barbados Ivory Giant Crabs (Cardisoma Sp.)

Barbados Ivory Giant Crabs are large, robust crabs with striking ivory-colored shells. They can be found near the coastlines of Barbados, feeding on detritus and vegetation. These crabs play a vital role in the coastal ecosystem, aiding in the breakdown of organic matter.

Giant Land Crab (Cardisoma guanhumi)

The Giant Land Crab is the largest land-dwelling crab species in the Caribbean. They have a distinct orange coloration and can reach impressive sizes. These crabs are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant and animal matter, and are known to travel long distances in search of food and mates.

Barbados Pink Fiddler Crabs (Uca barbadensis)

Barbados Pink Fiddler Crabs are small, vibrant crabs named for their bright pink coloration. Males have one oversized claw, which they use for courtship displays and territorial disputes. These crabs can be found in mangrove forests and mudflats, where they play a crucial role in the ecosystem by aerating the sediment as they burrow.

Spiny-backed Orb Weaver (Gasteracantha cancriformis)

The Spiny-backed Orb Weaver is a striking spider species found in the Caribbean. They are known for their distinctive, spiny abdomens and colorful markings. These spiders are harmless to humans and beneficial to the environment, as they help control insect populations.

Barbados Giant Burrowing Roach (Blaborous colosseus)

The Barbados Giant Burrowing Roach is a large, flightless roach species native to Barbados. Uniquely, this species gives live birth instead of laying eggs. They are primarily detritivores, feeding on decaying plant matter, and contribute to the nutrient cycling process in the ecosystem.

Barbados Praying Mantis (Stagmatoptera septentrionalis)

The Barbados Praying Mantis is a fascinating predator native to the Caribbean. These insects are known for their distinctive, prayer-like posture and excellent camouflage. They are ambush predators, patiently waiting for prey to approach before striking with lightning speed.

Barbados Stick Insect (Bostra Sp.)

The Barbados Stick Insect is a master of disguise, closely resembling a twig or small branch. This remarkable camouflage allows them to blend seamlessly with their surroundings and avoid detection by predators. They are herbivores, feeding primarily on leaves.

Barbados Click Beetle (Chalcolepidius porcatus)

The Barbados Click Beetle is a small, elongated beetle known for its unique ability to “click” and jump when disturbed. They possess a specialized hinge mechanism in their thorax that allows them to spring into the air, deterring predators and facilitating escape.

Barbados Giant Yellow Centipede (Scolopendra Gigantea)

The Barbados Giant Yellow Centipede is a large, venomous centipede found in the Caribbean. These centipedes can reach impressive lengths and are known for their bright yellow coloration. They are fierce predators, preying on insects and small vertebrates, and are known to care for their offspring.

Barbados Giant Red Centipede (Scolopendra angulata)

The Barbados Giant Red Centipede is a close relative of the Giant Yellow Centipede, with a striking red coloration. These large, venomous arthropods are also predators, hunting a variety of small animals, and have been observed caring for their offspring as well.

Green Sphinx Moth

The Green Sphinx Moth is a large, vibrant moth species found in the Caribbean. They are known for their striking green coloration and streamlined body shape. These moths are skilled fliers and are often seen hovering near flowers, sipping nectar with their long proboscis.

Barbados Land Hermit Crab (Coenobita clypeata)

The Barbados Land Hermit Crab is a terrestrial hermit crab species that can be found along the coastal areas of Barbados. These fascinating crustaceans are known for their unique behavior of occupying empty gastropod shells as a form of protection for their vulnerable abdomens.

Barbados Orb Web Spider (Argiope argentata)

The Barbados Orb Web Spider is a large, brightly colored spider known for its distinctive, intricate orb-shaped webs. These spiders are harmless to humans and play an essential role in controlling insect populations, as they feed on a variety of pests.

Barbados Moon Crab (Gecarcinus ruricola)

The Barbados Moon Crab is a colorful land crab found in the Caribbean. These nocturnal crustaceans have a striking appearance, with a blue or purple carapace and bright orange legs. They are scavengers, feeding on a variety of plant and animal matter, and play an important role in the ecosystem.