Sand Crab: History, Facts, Size, Habitat, Classification & Much More

By Morgan Gutierrez

Introducing a fascinating creature from the animal kingdom, the sand crab! In this blog post, we will delve into the history, facts, size, habitat, and classification of this intriguing creature. Whether you are a nature enthusiast or simply curious about the diverse world of animals, this post will provide you with valuable insights about sand crabs.

Sand crabs have a rich history, dating back millions of years. These tiny creatures have been a part of Earth’s ecosystems since ancient times. Found in sandy beaches across the globe, they play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of their habitats. Despite their small size, sand crabs are quite interesting creatures, with unique characteristics and behaviors.

When it comes to size, sand crabs are relatively small, usually measuring only a few centimeters in length. However, their small size doesn’t make them any less significant. They possess remarkable adaptations that enable them to thrive in sandy environments. Their habitat consists of sandy beaches and shorelines, where they burrow into the sand to protect themselves from predators and harsh weather conditions.

In terms of classification, sand crabs belong to the crustacean family. They are arthropods, which means they have jointed legs, external skeletons, and segmented bodies. Their close relatives include lobsters, crabs, and shrimp. Understanding the classification of sand crabs allows us to study their evolution and relationship with other creatures in the animal kingdom.

Make sure to check out our previous article where we explore more than 155 fascinating animal names. Stay tuned to learn more about the captivating world of animals in our upcoming blog posts!

History of Sand Crab

The history of the sand crab is quite fascinating! These little creatures have been around for a very long time. They have been living on our planet for millions of years, even before the dinosaurs roamed the Earth.

In the deep past, sand crabs lived in water, just like regular crabs. But as time went on, they adapted to a life on sandy beaches. Today, they can be found in sandy areas near the shore. They have a unique way of digging tunnels in the sand to create their homes. These tunnels not only provide them shelter but also help them catch their food.

Sand crabs are known for their ability to survive in extreme conditions. They have developed special adaptations to protect themselves from predators and changing environments. For example, their hard exoskeleton provides them with a strong outer covering, and their large eyes help them spot any potential danger.

These tiny creatures also play an important role in the ecosystem. They help keep the beaches clean by feeding on dead plants and animals. Additionally, sand crabs serve as a food source for other animals, such as seagulls and fish. Without them, the balance of the beach ecosystem would be disrupted.

In conclusion, sand crabs have a long and interesting history that dates back millions of years. They have adapted to life on sandy beaches and have become an essential part of the beach ecosystem. Their ability to survive in challenging conditions and contribute to the health of the environment is truly remarkable.

Importance of Sand Crab

The sand crab is a special animal that plays an important role in the ecosystem. It helps keep the beaches clean and healthy. Let’s explore why the sand crab is so important.

Firstly, sand crabs are excellent cleaners of the beach. They scurry along the sand and eat up all the tiny bits of dead plants and animals called detritus. By doing so, they help to maintain the balance of the ecosystem. If there were no sand crabs, the beach would become smelly and dirty because all the dead things would start to pile up. So, the sand crabs are like nature’s very own cleaners!

Secondly, sand crabs are a tasty treat for many birds. Birds often come to the beach to look for food, and one of their favorite snacks is the sand crab. The birds eat the crabs, which provide them with the necessary energy to survive. Without sand crabs, the birds would struggle to find enough food, and this would disrupt the food chain. So, sand crabs are not only important for themselves, but for the birds who rely on them too.

Lastly, sand crabs also have an important role in the cycle of life. They lay their eggs in the sand, and these hatch into tiny baby crabs. As the baby crabs grow, they become part of the next generation, ensuring the continuity of their species. If there were no sand crabs, there would be a gap in the ecosystem, and this could have negative effects on other animals and plants that depend on them.

In conclusion, the sand crab is a small but significant creature that helps clean the beach, provides food for birds, and contributes to the cycle of life. Their presence is essential for the health and balance of the ecosystem. Next time you visit the beach, take a moment to appreciate these amazing animals and their important role in nature.

Amazing Facts About Sand Crab

1. Sand crabs, also known as mole crabs, are small crustaceans found on sandy beaches worldwide.
2. They are named after their ability to burrow in the sand, creating small holes and leaving only their eyes and antennae visible.
3. Sand crabs have a compact body with a hard exoskeleton, similar to other crabs.
4. They have four pairs of legs, with the pair of front legs equipped with pinchers used for feeding and defense.
5. Sand crabs usually measure around 1 to 2 inches long, making them relatively small creatures.
6. Despite their small size, sand crabs play a crucial role in maintaining the health of sandy beach ecosystems.
7. These crabs feed primarily on plankton and other tiny organisms they filter out from the water using their antennae.
8. Sand crabs can quickly retract their bodies into their burrows when they sense danger, making them difficult to catch.
9. They are nocturnal creatures, most active during the night when the tide is low and the sand is wet.
10. Female sand crabs can lay thousands of tiny eggs, attaching them to their body until they hatch into larvae and float away.
11. Sand crabs are an essential food source for many shorebirds and other marine animals.
12. They are also used as bait by many recreational fishermen to catch fish such as surfperch.
13. Sand crabs have a limited lifespan, usually surviving for only a couple of years.
14. These crabs are natural engineers and their burrowing helps to oxygenate the sand and recycle nutrients within coastal systems.
15. The decline of sand crab populations can have significant impacts on beach ecosystems, underscoring the importance of their conservation.

Can we keep Sand Crab as our Pet?

No, we cannot keep the Sand Crab animal as our pet. Sand Crabs are not suitable pets because they are not meant to be kept in captivity. These crabs have a specific habitat in the sandy shores, and they play an important role in the ecosystem.

The Sand Crab is a small creature that lives near the ocean’s shores. They have unique adaptations that allow them to survive in the sandy environment, such as specialized claws for digging and a hard exoskeleton to protect themselves. Sand Crabs feed on plankton and other small organisms found in the sand. They are important because they help to keep the beach clean by filtering out particles from the sand.

Unfortunately, Sand Crabs are facing a threat of extinction due to habitat destruction and pollution. Human activities like coastal development, pollution, and overfishing are causing their populations to decline. These crabs need the sandy shores to survive, and if their habitats are destroyed, they cannot thrive. It is crucial to protect their natural environment to ensure their survival.

In conclusion, Sand Crabs cannot be kept as pets because they are not meant to be kept in captivity. They have unique adaptations and play an important role in their ecosystem. Moreover, their population is declining due to habitat destruction and pollution, making it essential to protect their natural habitat.

Size of Sand Crab

The sand crab is a small animal that lives in sandy beaches and shallow waters. It is also known as the mole crab, because it spends most of its time burrowed in the sand. When fully grown, sand crabs are usually about 1 to 2 inches in size. This makes them quite small compared to other crabs.

The body of a sand crab is round and compact, and its exoskeleton is soft and light brown in color. It has five pairs of legs, which are modified for digging into the sand. The front two legs are large and powerful, designed for scooping out sand and creating burrows. The back legs are smaller and are used for walking and swimming in the water.

Sand crabs are part of the food chain, serving as an important source of food for many shore birds, fish, and other marine animals. They are also well adapted to their sandy homes. Their size allows them to easily burrow in the sand and hide from predators. They have special structures called antennae that allow them to filter tiny particles of food from the water as it washes over them. This means they can eat without coming out of their sandy burrows, staying safe and protected.

In conclusion, sand crabs are small creatures with a compact body and five pairs of legs. They measure around 1 to 2 inches in size and are well adapted for life in sandy beaches and shallow waters. Their small size allows them to burrow in the sand, hiding from predators, while their special antennae help them filter food particles from the water. These unique characteristics make sand crabs an important part of the coastal ecosystem.

Habitat of Sand Crab

The sand crab is a small creature that lives in the sandy beach habitats near the ocean. It has a unique habitat that is specially adapted for its survival. The sand crab makes its home in the sand and is commonly found along the shoreline.

The sandy beach habitat is an important home for the sand crab. The sand provides great protection for the crab as it can burrow deep into the soft sand to hide from predators such as birds and fish. The sand also acts as a source of food for the crab. It sifts through the sand with its feathery antennae, filtering out tiny organisms and particles of food that it consumes. This makes the sandy beach habitat a perfect place for the sand crab to live.

In addition to the sandy beach, sand crabs can also survive in various other habitats such as mudflats, estuaries, and sometimes even sandy areas near freshwater. However, they are most commonly found in the sandy beach habitats. These habitats provide everything the sand crab needs to survive, including food, protection, and a suitable environment.

In conclusion, the sand crab is a fascinating creature that has a unique habitat in the sandy beach. The sand provides protection and a source of food for the crab, making it the ideal place for it to live. These sandy beach habitats are important homes for the sand crab and it is amazing to see how nature has provided everything it needs for its survival.

Evolution of Sand Crab

Sand crabs, also known as mole crabs, are fascinating creatures that have evolved over millions of years to adapt to their sandy coastal habitats. These small crustaceans have experienced various changes in their body structures and behaviors, allowing them to survive and thrive in their unique environment.

In the early stages of their evolution, sand crabs had a more primitive body shape, similar to other crab species. However, as they inhabited sandy beaches, a remarkable transformation took place. Over time, their bodies became flattened, which gave them an advantage in burrowing into the sand. This flattened shape allowed them to move easily between the grains of sand, preventing them from getting washed away by the strong coastal waves.

Another remarkable adaptation of sand crabs is their specialized appendages. They have long, thin legs that enable them to dig rapidly into the sand, searching for food and creating burrows for protection. Their back legs are specially modified to be paddle-like, aiding in their quick movements underwater. These adaptations have made sand crabs efficient burrowers and agile swimmers, allowing them to escape predators and catch their prey.

Furthermore, sand crabs have evolved an interesting behavior called “body-surfing” or “standing wave surfing.” During high tide, they position themselves at the water’s edge, facing the oncoming waves. As the waves recede, they bury themselves quickly into the sand, using the wave’s force to carry them deeper into their burrows. This remarkable behavior protects them from being exposed on the beach and helps them to remain hidden from potential predators.

In summary, the evolution of sand crabs is a remarkable story of survival and adaptation. Their flattened body shape, specialized appendages, and unique behaviors have allowed them to thrive in sandy coastal habitats. These adaptations showcase the remarkable ability of nature to shape and transform a species over time, ensuring its survival in even the most challenging environments.

Classification of Sand Crab

The sand crab, also known as the beach crab, is a fascinating creature that belongs to the animal kingdom. It is classified under the phylum Arthropoda, which includes animals with jointed legs and an exoskeleton. Specifically, sand crabs are part of the class Malacostraca, which consists of crustaceans like lobsters, crayfish, and shrimps.

Sand crabs are further classified under the order Decapoda, which means “ten feet.” This order includes many types of crabs, such as hermit crabs and fiddler crabs. Sand crabs are small in size, measuring only about 4 inches in length. They have a hard exoskeleton that protects their body and allows them to bury themselves in the sand.

Lastly, within the order Decapoda, the sand crab belongs to the family Hippidae. This family consists of several species of sand crabs found worldwide, including the Pacific sand crab and the Atlantic sand crab. These crabs are primarily found on sandy beaches, where they use their specialized legs to dig burrows in the sand.

In summary, the sand crab is a remarkable creature that falls under the phylum Arthropoda. It belongs to the class Malacostraca and the order Decapoda, which includes many different types of crabs. Within the Decapoda order, the sand crab is specifically classified under the family Hippidae. This classification helps us understand more about the sand crab’s unique characteristics and how it relates to other members of the animal kingdom.

Types of Sand Crab

1. Sand Fleas: These tiny creatures are also known as sand crabs and they burrow themselves in the sand at beaches. They have a hard exoskeleton and feed on organic matter they find in the sand. People often use them as bait for fishing.

2. Blue Moon Crabs: These distinctive crabs have a blueish hue on their legs and bodies, giving them their name. They are most commonly found on sandy beaches and feed on small invertebrates and plants. Blue moon crabs are typically nocturnal and hide during the day.

3. Ghost Crabs: These crabs have a pale, almost translucent coloration, which helps them blend in with the sand. They are agile and fast, able to dart across the sand with ease. Ghost crabs scavenge for food at night and can often be seen emerging from their burrows.

4. Sand Hoppers: These small, shrimp-like creatures can be found hopping along the sandy shores. They are usually tan or brown in color and have elongated bodies. Sand hoppers are detritivores, meaning they consume dead plant material and algae washed up on the beach.

5. Yellow Shore Crabs: As their name suggests, these crabs have a yellowish hue and inhabit sandy shores. They are scavengers, feeding on dead animals and algae. Yellow shore crabs are often found hiding in rock crevices during low tide.

6. Mole Crabs: These small crustaceans are commonly known as sand crabs or sand fleas. They have barrel-shaped bodies and burrow backwards into the sand, with only their antennae peeking out. Mole crabs are filter feeders, using their antennae to capture plankton and detritus.

7. Sand Fiddler Crabs: These crabs have distinctive large claws on their males, which they use to attract mates and fight off rivals. They live in burrows on sandy beaches and feed on algae, decaying plant material, and small invertebrates. Sand fiddler crabs are often active during low tide.

8. Purple Shore Crabs: These crabs have a vibrant purple coloration, although it can vary from dark purple to reddish-purple. They are nocturnal scavengers, feeding on various types of dead marine animals. Purple shore crabs are equipped with strong pincers for breaking open shells.

9. Speckled Sand Crabs: These crabs have speckled patterns on their shells, which serve as camouflage in the sandy environment. They are omnivorous, eating a combination of algae, small invertebrates, and other organic matter. Speckled sand crabs can adapt to a wide range of beach habitats.

10. Atlantic Sand Crabs: Found along the Atlantic coast, these animals have a grayish or tan coloration. They burrow into the wet sand and come out to forage during high tide. Atlantic sand crabs feed on plankton and tiny organisms that are brought in with the waves.

Geographical Presence of Sand Crab

The Sand Crab is commonly found in the sandy regions of shorelines and beaches all over the world. These small, crustacean creatures are adapted to live in the intertidal zone, which is the area between the high and low tide. They can be found scurrying across the sand or digging shallow burrows to hide. Sand crabs are often seen at dusk or dawn when they come out to feed on small organisms and algae washed up on the shore.

However, there are certain regions where Sand Crabs are not found. One example is in areas with rocky shores or cliffs, where there is limited or no sandy habitat for them to thrive. These crabs require fine sand particles to burrow and create their homes, and rocky surfaces simply do not provide the ideal environment for them. Additionally, Sand Crabs are not commonly found in deeper waters or offshore, as they prefer the shallower areas where they can easily access food and reproduce.

In summary, Sand Crabs are primarily found in sandy regions along shorelines and beaches all around the world. They prefer the intertidal zone and rely on the sand for burrowing and survival. However, they are absent in regions with rocky shorelines or cliffs, as well as offshore and deeper waters. These fascinating creatures play an important role in the ecosystem, as they help to filter the sand and provide food for other marine animals.

Scientific Name of Sand Crab

The scientific name of the sand crab animal is Emerita analoga. These amazing creatures can be found in sandy beaches all around the world. They are small, measuring only about 1.5 inches long, but they play a significant role in maintaining the ecosystem of the beach.

Sand crabs have a unique body structure that helps them survive in their sandy habitats. Their bodies are flat, allowing them to easily bury themselves in the sand for protection. They also have distinct antennae that help them sense approaching predators and prey. These crabs are primarily filter feeders, meaning they use their specialized appendages to capture tiny organisms and plankton from the water.

Sand crabs are also an important food source for various marine animals, such as shorebirds and fish. Their populations can fluctuate depending on factors like temperature and wave action. Researchers often study sand crabs to understand the health of a beach ecosystem and the impacts of human activity. By preserving the sandy shores where these crabs dwell, we can ensure the survival of this remarkable species and the balance of the beach ecosystem as a whole.

Diet of Sand Crab

The diet of the sand crab animal mainly consists of small ocean plants and tiny animals. They eat things like plankton, which are tiny organisms that float in the water. These crabs have special feathery appendages called maxillipeds that help them catch their food. They scoop up the tiny particles from the ocean water and then transfer them to their mouths to be eaten.

Sand crabs also eat detritus, which is decomposing organic matter. This means they sometimes munch on dead plants and animals. They use their small pincers to grab these bits of debris and bring them to their mouths. They are usually not picky eaters and will consume whatever they can find in their sandy homes.

Juvenile sand crabs have a slightly different diet than adults. They primarily feed on very small plants and animals, such as microscopic algae and tiny crustaceans. As they grow and become adults, their diet expands to include larger organisms. These crabs are usually active during the night when the tide is low, allowing them to search for food on the surface of the sand.

In summary, sand crabs have a varied diet that includes plankton, detritus, and small plants and animals. They use their unique appendages to collect and consume their food. Juvenile sand crabs have a different diet compared to adults, and these crabs are most active at night when the tide is low.

Locomotion of Sand Crab

The sand crab is a small creature that lives in sandy beaches. It has a unique way of moving called locomotion. Locomotion means the way an animal moves from one place to another.

The sand crab uses its strong legs to dig into the sand. It pushes the sand backwards, creating a little tunnel. Then, it quickly jumps into the tunnel to escape from predators or to find food. This is how it moves through the sand. It can also move sideways by using its legs to paddle through the sand. The sand crab is very fast and can move in different directions with ease. It’s fascinating to see how such a tiny creature can move through the sand so quickly and efficiently.

Social and Sexual Behaviour of Sand Crab

Sand crabs, like many other animals, have their own unique social and sexual behaviors. These fascinating creatures live in colonies, which means they gather together in groups. They dig burrows in sandy beaches, where they stay during high tide and for protection. They live in close proximity to one another, and this social behavior allows them to communicate, find mates, and protect themselves better.

When it comes to mating, sand crabs have an interesting strategy. The males usually approach the female crabs, waving their claws and antennae to show their interest. This is known as courtship behavior. If the female is also interested, she will respond by lifting her abdomen. The male sand crab then deposits his sperm into a specialized pouch in the female’s body. The female will later release her eggs, which get fertilized by the stored sperm. This unique process ensures that the female can reproduce even when the males are not immediately available.

In summary, sand crabs are social creatures that live together in colonies on sandy beaches. They communicate and interact with each other, which helps them find mates and protect themselves. When it comes to reproduction, they have a courtship behavior where males approach females, and the female can store the sperm for future fertilization. These fascinating social and sexual behaviors make the sand crab a truly remarkable creature of the beach.

Reproduction and Lifecycle of Sand Crab

Sand crabs have a unique and interesting life cycle. Let’s take a closer look at how these fascinating creatures reproduce and grow.

The reproduction process of sand crabs begins when a female sand crab lays eggs. This usually happens during the spring and summer seasons. The female crab carries the eggs on her abdomen until they are ready to hatch. These eggs are small and round, and they are protected by a tough outer shell. After a few weeks, the eggs hatch into tiny larvae.

Once the larvae hatch, they are carried out to sea by ocean currents. During this time, the larvae go through several stages of growth, shedding their outer shells and developing into juvenile crabs. This stage can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on environmental conditions. As the juvenile crabs grow, they make their way back to the shoreline, where they burrow into the sand.

As the crabs mature, they go through a molting process to shed their old shells and grow a new, larger one. They continue to repeat this process throughout their lives. Male crabs reach maturity sooner than females, and they can mate with multiple females during the breeding season.

In summary, the life cycle of a sand crab involves a female laying eggs, the eggs hatching into larvae, and the larvae growing into juvenile crabs. These crabs then mature and go through a molting process throughout their lives. It’s fascinating to learn about the different stages of growth and reproduction in these amazing creatures.

Threats to Sand Crab

The sand crab animal is facing several threats that are making it harder for them to survive. One major threat is pollution. Humans often throw garbage and chemicals into the ocean, and this harms the sand crabs. When they come into contact with pollutants, it can lead to diseases or even death. Pollution also affects the sand crab’s food sources, such as plankton and other small organisms, which reduces their chances of finding enough food to eat.

Another danger that sand crabs face is habitat destruction. Coastal development, such as the construction of buildings and roads, destroys the sandy beaches that these crabs call home. When their habitat is destroyed, they lose their shelter and protection from predators. They might have to move to new areas that may not have enough food or suitable conditions for them to survive.

Climate change is also posing a threat to sand crabs. As the oceans warm up, it affects the sand crab’s ability to reproduce and survive. The rising temperatures can make it harder for them to find food, and it can also affect their ability to molt, which is when they shed their shells as they grow. If the water becomes too warm or if the ocean levels rise, it can drown the sand crabs or make it harder for them to build their burrows.

In conclusion, sand crabs are facing multiple threats, including pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change. These factors make it difficult for them to survive and thrive in their natural environment. It is important for humans to take action to protect the sand crab animal and its habitat, such as reducing pollution, conserving coastal areas, and addressing climate change.

Population of Sand Crab

The population of the Sand Crab, a type of animal found on sandy beaches, is estimated to be quite large. It is believed that there are millions of Sand Crabs living in the world. These tiny creatures are commonly found scurrying around on the shores, digging their homes deep underground in the sand.

However, if the Sand Crab were to become extinct, it would mean that there are no more of these animals left on Earth. Unfortunately, due to various human activities such as pollution and destruction of their natural habitat, the population of Sand Crabs is at risk. When a species becomes extinct, it means that there are no more individuals of that species alive.

Extinction can have a profound impact on an ecosystem. When an animal becomes extinct, it disrupts the natural balance and can cause other species to struggle for survival. It is important for us to be aware of how our actions can affect the population of animals like the Sand Crab, and take steps to protect their habitat to prevent their extinction.

Conclusion

Overall, sand crabs are fascinating creatures that are an important part of our ecosystem. These small animals can be found along sandy beaches and they play a crucial role in keeping our beaches clean and healthy. Sand crabs are known for their ability to bury themselves in the sand, making them excellent at hiding from predators and catching their prey.

Sand crabs, like other animal species, have a long history that dates back millions of years. They have managed to adapt and survive in various environments, which is a testament to their resilience and ability to evolve. Today, they can be found in different parts of the world, from the sandy shores of the United States to the coastal areas of Australia.

In terms of size, sand crabs are relatively small creatures. They usually measure around 3 to 5 centimeters in length, making them easy to miss when walking along the beach. Despite their small size, they are an essential part of the food chain. They serve as a food source for larger animals such as seabirds and fish, contributing to the overall balance of marine life.

In conclusion, sand crabs are fascinating animals that have adapted to their sandy coastal habitats. They have a long history, play a vital role in the ecosystem, and are relatively small in size. These creatures, like many others in our world, are a reminder of the incredible diversity and beauty that exists in nature. So next time you’re at the beach, take a moment to appreciate the tiny sand crabs scuttling along the shoreline, for they are part of the intricate web of life that makes our planet so extraordinary.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sand Crab (FAQ’s)

Q1: What is a sand crab?

A1: A sand crab, also known as a mole crab or sand crab, is a small crustacean that lives in sandy beaches.

Q2: What do sand crabs look like?

A2: Sand crabs have a small, oval-shaped body with spiky legs and modified appendages to help them burrow in the sand.

Q3: Where do sand crabs live?

A3: Sand crabs are found worldwide in sandy beaches along the shoreline, usually near the water’s edge.

Q4: What do sand crabs eat?

A4: Sand crabs are filter feeders, mainly consuming plankton and detritus found in the water.

Q5: How do sand crabs reproduce?

A5: Sand crabs reproduce through internal fertilization, and the females release their fertilized eggs into the water.

Q6: Are sand crabs social creatures?

A6: Sand crabs are not social creatures and usually live solitary lives.

Q7: How long do sand crabs live?

A7: The lifespan of sand crabs varies, but on average, they live for up to 2-3 years.

Q8: Can sand crabs swim?

A8: Sand crabs are not strong swimmers; they prefer to burrow in the sand and stay close to the water’s edge.

Q9: Are sand crabs harmful to humans?

A9: Sand crabs are harmless to humans and do not possess any venom or stingers.

Q10: Can sand crabs survive out of water?

A10: Sand crabs have adapted to survive short periods out of water but depend on moist environments to survive.

Q11: What predators do sand crabs have?

A11: Predators of sand crabs include birds, fish, and other small marine animals that feed on them.

Q12: Do sand crabs have any commercial value?

A12: Sand crabs are not typically commercially harvested for consumption but are sometimes used as bait in fishing.

Q13: How do sand crabs defend themselves?

A13: Sand crabs have the ability to dig quickly and bury themselves in the sand to escape from predators.

Q14: What is the purpose of the sand crab’s spiky legs?

A14: The spiky legs of sand crabs help them filter feed, capturing plankton and other small organisms from the water.

Q15: Can sand crabs be kept as pets?

A15: Sand crabs are not commonly kept as pets, as their habitat requirements can be challenging to replicate outside of their natural environment.

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