Feeding Behavior of a Crab According to Cheliped Number

PLoS One. 2015 Dec 18;10(12):e0145121. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0145121. eCollection 2015.

Abstract

Cheliped loss through autotomy is a common reflexive response in decapod crustaceans. Cheliped loss has direct and indirect effects on feeding behavior which can affect population dynamics and the role of species in the community. In this study, we assessed the impact of autotomy (0, 1, or 2 cheliped loss) on feeding behavior in the crab Pachygrapsus transversus, an omnivorous and abundant species that inhabits subtropical intertidal rocky shores along the South Atlantic Ocean. Autotomy altered crab feeding patterns and foraging behavior; however, the time spent foraging on animal prey or algae was not affected. These results indicate a plasticity of feeding behavior in P. transversus, allowing them to maintain feeding when injured.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brachyura / physiology*
  • Extremities / physiology*
  • Feeding Behavior / physiology
  • Models, Biological

Grants and funding

This work was supported by the Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) due scholarship to DNO (07/58436-8) and research funds granted to RAC (06/00559-4 and 06/60237-0). The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.