Additional information (Wiki): Gecarcinus is the type genus of the land crab family Gecarcinidae. They are found in warmer coastal regions of the Americas, and islands in the East Pacific and Atlantic Ocean. It has been suggested that Johngarthia, which are restricted to small islands, should be considered a distinct genus rather than a subgenus. Additionally, it has been suggested that G. lateralis and G. quadratus should be considered conspecific, while G. lagostoma and G. weileri were considered conspecific until 1973. While all members of this genus are largely terrestrial, they have to return to the ocean to breed (the larvae are released into the sea).

They are often colourful, with reddish, orange, purple, yellowish, whitish or blackish being the dominating hues. This has resulted in some species, notably G. quadratus and G. lateralis, gaining a level of popularity in the pet-trade.