It displays "hypercarcinisation", whereby the resemblance to a true crab is enhanced by sexual dimorphism of the abdomen.

[2] These morphological differences are thought to be a consequence of the species' ecology, living in close association with a sea anemone, where the ability to escape by swimming is not needed.

[1] A. spinifrons lives symbiotically on the sea anemone Phymactis papillosa, chiefly in the lower intertidal zone.

[3] In common with other porcelain crabs, A. spinifrons is a filter feeder, but will also feed on faeces and mucus produced by the sea anemone.

[3] The porcelain crab benefits from the protection afforded by the sea anemone's stinging cells.