Freshwater and Semi-terrestrial Crab Fauna of Selected Areas in Southern Luzon, Philippines

Abstract

Philippines is an archipelago known for its rich biodiversity. However, there is still inadequate knowledge regarding its biodiversity in the present times. With line to this, further survey and researches are the priority of this study. Crab faunal studies are usually deficient in terms of data and researches. The freshwater and semi-terrestrial crabs of southern Luzon are studied on the basis of field collections carried out from March to September 2004 in selected areas of Cavite, Batangas, Albay, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes and the Central Luzon (Nueva Ecija and Tarlac). A total of 116 crab samples were obtained, preserved and diagnosed in the laboratory for taxonomic characters. The identification of this samples were conducted using available descriptions of representative species of the varying families and genera of Philippine freshwater crabs. To support the research, other samples were examined by carcinologists to express the identity of the crab samples. Morphological approach is the primary method used in the study. The results manifested eight (8) taxa that were also reported, described and identified that belong to four (4) families namely Potamidae, Parathelphusidae, Grapsidae and Gecarcinidae. For future use and advancement there is a need for intensive systematic studies prior to genetic characters and the gonopodium of male crabs.