Abstract
Past studies on the evolution of the structure of the decapod cheliped relied strongly on intraspecific allometric comparisons. This approach is probably inadequate in understanding the interplay of the various selection pressures shaping the evolution of such multi-functional organs as the decapod cheliped. A framework employing intersexual and interspecific allometric comparisons as well as manipulative experiments is proposed to allow a better understanding of the interaction and possibly, the relative importance of foraging, agonistic interactions, phenotypic variations and sexual selection in cheliped evolution. Comparative allometric data are presented for seven Charybdis and Portunus spp. from Hong Kong. The uncertainty about the role of intersexual niche partitioning in the evolution of sexual dimorphism, the lack of comprehensive fossil data on cheliped evolution and timing of the development of morphometric characteristics, and questions about the importance of phenotypic plasticity are identified as major problems met in the study of cheliped evolution.
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