Abstract
1) Behaviour during intraspecific encounter is described for two species of grapsid crab. 2) Ritualized agonistic behaviour, in the form of shield posturing, display and fighting, is described for both species. In Goniopsis it occurs during encounters between similar sized adults of either sex but in Aratus it only occurs during encounters between similar sized adult males. This difference is linked with sexual dimorphism of the chelipeds which is marked in Aratus but not obvious in Goniopsis. 3) It is concluded that reactions to intraspecific encounter serve to maintain a dominance order and that cheliped size is a major indicator of status. 4) Previous work has shown that agonistic behaviour in grapsoid crabs is usually centred on defence of territory. Aratus and Goniopsis, however, are not territorial.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
