The carotenoids of the hermit crab, Clibanarius erythropus during the moulting cycle—II. Qualitative aspects

Abstract

1. 1. Carotenoid qualitative variations induced by moulting in Clibanarius erythropus result from esterification and/or hydrolysis reactions affecting astaxanthin and α-doradexanthin, the main carotenoids of the animal. This can be observed in the carapace, in particular. 2. 2. The carotenoid pattern of the epidermis is not affected by moulting, whereas hepatopancreas and blood show important qualitative variations. 3. 3. Most of the carotenoid of the animal occurs in the epidermis.