BROODING OF JUVENILES AND OBSERVATIONS ON DISPERSAL OF YOUNG IN THE SPIDER CRAB PARANAXIA SERPULIFERA (GUÉRIN) (DECAPODA, BRACHYURA, MAJIDAE) FROM WESTERN AUSTRALIA

WA Museum Records and Supplements | Updated 1 decade ago

Abstract
Aspects of the eggs, brooding behaviour and juvenile dispersal of Paranaxia serpulifera (Guerin) are described. Observed females carried in excess of 1000 large eggs, the highest recorded fecundity for a direct developing marine brachyuran. Most juveniles leaving the brood chamber dispersed over the posterior carapace and pereiopods of the mother. Juveniles unattached to the mother and on an exposed substrate formed dense aggregations but dispersed when shelter was provided. Juveniles displayed decorating behaviour.

Author(s) MORGAN, GARY J. : Parts 3 and 4
Page Number
337