Abstract
The galatheid Munidopsis polymorpha Koelbel, 1892, is found at high population density in an anchialine pool (Jameos del Agua) on Lanzarote. Ovigerous females on an average carry 14 eggs. Larval development is advanced. Only 2 zoeal stages, which are unable to undergo locomotion, precede molt to a small crab. Munidopsis polymorpha is not preyed upon in the Jameos del Agua. Population density is regulated less by available food than by the number of available hiding places for resting phases. Population density is probably increased by the fact that the highly territorial crabs periodically alternate in feeding in the same grazing areas and in hiding. The percentage ofovigerous females and the average number of eggs per female is negatively correlated with the number of specimens per area. During the years of investigation from 1976-1989, the number of ovigerous females and the average number of eggs per female have decreased considerably in parts of the pool. Consequently, the general population density has become drastically reduced. This is attributed to the construction and opening of the Jameos del Agua for tourism.
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.
