Growth Of Crabs Research Articles (Page 1)

This study investigated the influence of two distinct aquaculture systems, namely, the wheat-crab model (WCM) and pond culture (PC) model, on the growth, physiological well-being, and gut microbial structure of Chinese mitten crabs (Eriocheir sinensis). A total of 120 adult crabs were randomly selected from the two systems: 60 crabs from the WCM, including 30 females and 30 males, and 60 crabs from the PC model, also including 30 females and 30 males. The gonadosomatic index of female crabs in the WCM was notably higher than that of the other groups, while the hepatopancreatic index was significantly lower. Significant variations were not observed in final weight, fullness, or muscle yield between the WCM and PC groups. Biochemical evaluations indicated no substantial differences in antioxidant capabilities between the two systems; however, female crabs demonstrated increased critical antioxidant enzyme activity, such as for catalase and superoxide dismutase, and significantly elevated cholesterol levels. Additionally, the expression of the genes IL, ProPO, and Keap1 was significantly higher in the WCM group than the PC group, whereas the expression of ALF2, Myd88, and CncC did not significantly differ between the two cultivation methods. Non-targeted metabolomics analysis revealed notable distinctions in metabolite profiles between the two systems. Moreover, the WCM facilitated an increase in beneficial Firmicutes bacteria while reducing potentially harmful microorganisms, suggesting improved immune function in crabs raised under the WCM. In summary, female crabs reared in the WCM matured earlier and exhibited slightly better health conditions compared to those grown in the PC model.

Effects of calcium levels in water on growth, calcium deposition, molting, and immunity of Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis)

Beneficial effects of dietary organic acids on growth and health of juvenile Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis)

Anthropogenic activities such as logging and converting mangrove forests into plantations have degraded coastal ecosystems and reduced their ecological stability. Silvofishery is a restoration system that balances the ecological and economic functions of mangroves. In Marga Sungsang Village, South Sumatra, mangrove restoration was integrated with mud crab (Scylla spp.) cultivation through a crab silvofishery system. This study aimed to analyze the contribution of mangrove restoration with a mud crab silvofishery system to mud crab growth. The study was conducted from August 2024 to January 2025. Growth parameters included carapace length, width, and body weight. Analyses covered absolute growth and the correlation between carapace width and body weight. Results showed that in non-mangrove ponds, Scylla tranquebarica males exhibited negative allometry (prominent carapace width), while females showed positive allometry (prominent body weight). Scylla paramamosain showed negative allometry in both sexes. In contrast, in mangrove ponds, both species showed positive allometry for both sexes, indicating higher weight gain. These findings suggest that mangrove vegetation provides optimal habitat conditions by increasing nutrient availability, protecting crabs during molting, and improving substrate quality. The results not only demonstrate the bioecological relationship between mangrove vegetation and mangrove crab growth but also highlight the role of crab silvofishery systems in supporting food security, mitigating climate change, and conserving coastal ecosystems. These results align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically goal 2 (end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture), goal 13 (climate action), and goal 14 (life below water). Although informative, this study was limited by temporal observations conducted only at the start of seed stocking and at harvest. Further research with continuous monitoring and environmental parameter analysis is needed. The findings can support mangrove restoration policies that integrate vegetation recovery with sustainable community-based aquaculture and promote blue economy development.

Mangrove crab is one of the leading export commodities in the fisheries sector which has a fairly high selling price at the farmer level. This commodity has great potential to be cultivated in the Asia-Pacific region. However, mangrove crab production in Indonesia is currently still dominated by wild catches because its cultivation activities have not developed optimally. to determine the effect of feeding trash fish and brown mussels on the growth and survival of Mangrove Crabs (S. paramamosain). This study was conducted for 90 days from December 2024 to March 2025. The research location was in the ponds of Candi Manik Village, Sekotong District, West Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara. The research method used 2 treatments, namely trash fish and brown mussels, each of which was repeated 20 times so that 40 experimental units were obtained according to the number of crabs, the treatments tested were trash fish (R) and brown mussels (K). The research data were analyzed using statistical analysis at a real level of 5%. the analysis used to test the results of the experiment was the t-test. The data tested t is the Specific Growth Rate (SGR) value, absolute weight growth, relative weight growth, and crab molting frequency using the mhen withny test while the survival rate (SR) data is analyzed descriptively. The results of the study showed that the absolute, relative, specific weight growth of crabs, molting frequency and survival given feed using brown mussels were higher than those given feed using trash fish. Feeding brown mussels resulted in better absolute, relative, specific growth, molting frequency and survival compared to feeding trash fish on the growth of mangrove crabs. Water quality measurements were within the normal range for the life of mangrove crabs. Keywords: Trash Fish, Mangrove Crabs, Brown Mussels, Molting, Growth

Mud crab (Scylla serrata) is a fishery commodity that has high economic value and has a wide salinity tolerance so that its growth can be developed. The growth of mud crabs can be influenced by genetic traits such as moulting. In cultivation activities there are methods that can accelerate the moulting process such as environmental engineering (increasing and decreasing the salinity of the maintenance media) and mutilation. This study aims to determine the growth and fastest moulting time of crabs in media with different salinities in controlled media. The method used is an experimental method with a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) consisting of 5 treatments and 3 replications, namely: (Control), (P1: 5 ppt), (P2: 10 ppt), (P3: 15 ppt) and (P4: 20 ppt) which are given to mud crabs for 45 days. The results showed that at 5 ppt salinity obtained the fastest moulting time which was 24.3 days and the longest was at 20 ppt salinity for 39 days, while the highest growth was obtained in the 15 ppt salinity treatment with an average absolute weight of 27.3 grams and the lowest was in the control treatment with an average absolute weight of 18.3 grams.

Efficacy of plant extracts in enhancing growth and molting of crab (Scylla serrata) in a traditional pond system

ABSTRACT This study observed the growth of juvenile Minuca rapax crabs reared in the laboratory up to the 10th juvenile instar. Juveniles were obtained after larval rearing and a total of 50 specimens were used for growth analysis, by measuring the width (L.C.) and length of the cephalothorax (C.C.). The crabs were kept individually in plastic containers containing sandy substrate and filtered seawater, without aeration and under constant conditions of salinity 30, temperature 26°C, pH 8.0 and photoperiod (12:12 h/light:dark). Newly hatched Artemia nauplii were used exclusively as food. The crabs reached the 10th juvenile instar after 184 days of cultivation, showing a reduction in survival rate over successive molts. The growth of M. rapax was continuous, with a strong positive correlation between C.C. and L.C., indicating a linear increase in these variables. A variation was also observed in the duration of the inter-moulting period of the respective instars. The average duration was shorter for the initial instars (4.9 ± 2.8) and extended throughout development, with the highest values in the most advanced instars (16.2 ± 7) days. The ratio between C.C. and L.C. showed a reduction as the juveniles grew, indicating that there was a change in the morphology of the cephalothorax during growth. The availability and type of food, as well as rearing conditions, can be determining factors in the growth of estuarine crab species in the laboratory. Keywords: Fiddler crab, development, juvenile, neotropical species.

Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) was chosen as an alternative for sustainable and low-impact mangrove crab cultivation. One of the main challenges in using RAS is determining the optimal feeding frequency. Inappropriate feeding can cause slow growth, increased mortality, and decreased water quality. This study aimed to analyze the effect of trash fish feeding frequency on the growth of mangrove crab (Scylla serrata) reared in RAS. The method used is an experimental method with a completely randomized design of 3 treatments and 4 replications. The research treatments tested were the frequency of feeding with FPP 01 once a day at 10 pm; FPP 02 twice a day at 10 pm and 5 pm; FPP 03 three times a day at 10 pm, 8 am and 5 pm. The parameters observed were survival, weight growth, carapace length growth, carapace width growth, specific growth rate and molting rate. The research data were analyzed using analysis of variance at a 95% significance level. The results showed that the frequency of feeding did not significantly affect the growth and survival of mud crabs in RAS. The frequency of feeding once is optimal to achieve maximum growth in mud crab cultivation using the RAS system with a survival rate of 100±0.00%, weight growth of 52.00±21.17 g, carapace length growth of 1.90±0.87 cm, carapace width growth of 1.60±0.70 cm, specific growth rate of 5.04±0.14%/day and molting rate of 67.00±0.58%.

The Chinese mitten crab, Eriocheir sinensis, is a water-dwelling crustacean that is widely distributed in northern hemisphere water systems. Body size is one of the crucial indicators determining the economic value of E. sinensis. However, research on the genetic basis and regulatory mechanisms of body size in this species is limited, with only a few relevant genes reported. Therefore, it is imperative to investigate the regulatory pathways associated with its growth. This study first utilized transcriptomic profiling and metabolomic sequencing to construct gene expression profiles and metabolite profiles of E. sinensis of different body sizes. Subsequently, through integrated omics analysis, the key genes and regulatory pathways involved in controlling the growth and size of crabs were preliminarily identified. This study found that larger female crabs exhibited significantly enhanced digestive functions, primarily reflected in the upregulation of trypsin-1 expression, suggesting its potentially pivotal role in regulating the growth and development of crabs. Interestingly, a variety of tissue-specific proteins such as APOLPP, RICK A, AGMO, and NEPHRIN, as well as REXO1L1P and ZCCHC24, indirectly influence the growth and development of crabs through their respective functional pathways. In addition, the key KEGG pathways, such as ECM-receptor interaction, cell adhesion, and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, were revealed to play central roles in the growth regulation of E. sinensis. These findings expand our understanding of the growth regulation mechanisms in crustaceans and offer potential molecular targets for body-size improvement in aquaculture.

Mangrove ecosystems play a crucial role in supporting the survival and growth of mud crabs (Scylla serrata) by providing shelter, breeding grounds, and food sources. This study aims to analyze the relationship between mangrove diversity and density with the population dynamics of S. serrata in East Lombok, Indonesia. The research was conducted across three study sites: Jerowaru, Seruni Mumbul, and Sugian, using purposive sampling to determine mangrove and crab distribution. Data were collected through vegetation analysis and crab sampling using line transects and quadrat plots. The findings indicate that Jerowaru has the highest mangrove density, reaching 1,233 plants/ha, dominated by Rhizophora mucronata (800 plants/ha). Seruni Mumbul has the highest species diversity, with nine species recorded, while Sugian, despite experiencing degradation, still supports significant S. serrata populations with a total density of 42 individuals/100m². Correspondence Analysis (CA) reveals that juvenile crabs are more associated with Avicennia officinalis at low density (<10 plants), Sonneratia alba at medium density (10–15 plants), and Rhizophora mucronata at high density (>15 plants). Meanwhile, adult S. serrata are strongly linked to high-density Rhizophora mucronata and Sonneratia alba (>15 plants).

Abstract The mangrove crab (Scylla spp.) is an important commodity for both the mangrove ecosystem and the coastal community’s economy. This study aims to analyze the habitat quality and potential spawning locations of mangrove crabs on the eastern coast of Aceh. The study was conducted by measuring various environmental parameters that influence the habitat of mangrove crabs. The physical parameters measured include water temperature, water depth, currents, and substrate structure. Other environmental parameters include salinity, water pH, dissolved oxygen (DO) content, and biological parameters such as mangrove vegetation density, mangrove species diversity, plankton population, and the presence of natural predators. The method used in this research is exploratory, with a quantitative approach and purposive sampling technique. Data collection was carried out by determining three observation points at each observation location, with each plot covering an area of 10x10 m2. The field samples were then analyzed in the laboratory. The results showed that the eastern coastal area of Aceh has good habitat quality for the growth and spawning of mangrove crabs, indicated by optimal environmental conditions and high biodiversity. The study found that the water pH ranges from 6-7, water temperature from 19°C-20°C, water salinity from 22-23 ppm, current speed at the study location ranges from 1-3 m, water clarity ranges from 18 -19 cm, current speed from 8-9 km/h, and dissolved oxygen from 6-7 ppm. The study also identified several challenges that need to be addressed, such as excessive crab fishing activities and the lack of community participation in mangrove conservation. Based on the study’s findings, sustainable management efforts are recommended, including increasing awareness and community participation, as well as implementing better coastal resource management policies.

Metabolic and nutritional effects of vitamin A on growth, lipid metabolism, antioxidant capacity and hepatopancreas health of juvenile mud crab (Scylla paramamosain)

A unique insight into the growth of necrocarcinoid crabs (Malacostraca: Decapoda: Brachyura): Evidence from the Upper Cretaceous of Siberia (Russia), with a description of a new species

Mangrove crabs are one of the important fisheries commodities in Indonesia which have made a significant contribution to the lives of coastal communities. This study aims to analyze differences in growth performance of mud crabs reared in different silvofishery ponds to find out the effect of gender and to determine the interaction patterns between silvofishery pond type and gender. This research method uses a Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) which consists of two factors, namely pond type (core pond, trench pond) and sex (male, female) so that it has 6 treatment combinations and 3 replications for each treatment. The initial weight of the test mud crab was 70-75 g. Test animals were kept for 56 days in crab baskets. The results showed that the interaction between pond type and sex had a significant influence on daily growth rate and absolute weight growth but did not significantly influence the feed conversion ratio and feed utilization efficiency. Duncan's further tests showed that the type of pond had a real influence on the feed conversion ratio and feed utilization efficiency. The best Feed Conversion Ratio was found in the core pond treatment with 3.80 ± 1.05 with the highest feed utilization efficiency of 27.67 ± 3.23 %.The survival rate shows values that are not significantly different between all treatments (86.67 – 100%.). The water quality measurement values during the research were still optimal for the growth of male and female mud crabs. Treatment of core ponds with female crabs (T2K2) showed the best performance in terms of daily growth rate and absolute weight growth of mud crabs. Core pond treatment with female crabs showed the highest daily growth results of 0.82% ± 0.01% and absolute growth of 42.00 ± 1.00.Keywords:Mud crabSilvofisheryCore PondDitch PondGenderGrowth

This study aims to determine the effect of different body part amputations on the moulting time and size of mangrove crabs (Scylla sp.) and to identify the most effective amputation method for accelerating moulting and enhancing growth. The research was conducted in Kantanan Village, Bokat District, Buol Regency, Central Sulawesi Province. A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was applied with four treatments and five replications, totaling 20 experimental units. The collected data were analyzed using ANOVA to assess the significance of treatment effects. Data collection involved direct observation in aquaculture ponds and literature studies to support findings with relevant references. The observation technique was used to monitor the moulting process and crab growth based on research indicators. Meanwhile, the literature study involved reviewing books and journals related to the biology and cultivation of mangrove crabs. The results indicate that body part amputation influences moulting time and crab size. The treatment involving locomotor limb amputation resulted in the best growth performance compared to other treatments. This study recommends stricter water quality control in future research to ensure an optimal environment for mangrove crab growth and moulting.

To support the sustainable development of rice and aquaculture industries, various rice-animal coculture systems have been developed. One such system, the rice-crab coculture system (RCC), has been practiced for decades in northern China. However, studies on the crab physiological status in RCC remain limited. Microorganisms play a crucial role in aquaculture by influencing animal nutrition, health, nutrient cycling, water quality, and environmental impact. Research on the gut and environmental microbiota in RCC is scarce. This study compared the growth performance, immune and digestive enzyme activities of crabs between RCC and traditional pond farming system (PF). In addition, the microbiota in crab guts, water, and sediment from both systems was investigated using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Crabs in RCC exhibited superior growth performance and higher enzymatic activities, including acid phosphatase (ACP), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), lipase (LPS), and trypsin (TRY). Significant differences were observed in microbiota composition across crab gut, water, and sediment samples, respectively. RCC crabs had a lower abundance of Bacteroidota and a higher abundance of Firmicutes in their gut microbiota. The RCC environment was enriched with beneficial bacteria such as Rhizobiales, Methylococcales, KD4-96, C39, Xanthomonadales, and Nitrosomonadaceae. Microbial function predictions confirmed enhanced methanotrophy and nitrogen fixation in the RCC. The RCC enhances the growth rate and immune capability of crabs. Crabs from RCC consume more animal-based nutrition, which results in distinct differences in gut microbiota composition and higher levels of LPS and TRY compared to those in PF. Additionally, RCC supports environmentally beneficial bacteria that contribute to greenhouse gas reduction, carbon and nitrogen fixation, organic matter decomposition, and ammonia oxidation, benefiting both the crabs and their ecosystem. These findings enhance our understanding of crab physiology and microbial communities in RCC and PF systems.

The effect of thermal stress on the X-organ/sinus gland proteome of the estuarine blue crab Callinectes sapidus during the intermolt and premolt stages.

Quercetin supplementation improved the growth and health of juvenile Chinese mitten crabs (Eriocheir sinensis) fed low-fishmeal diets

Abstract Marine invasive species can transform coastal ecosystems, yet mitigating their effects can be difficult, and even impractical. Often, marine invasive species are managed at poorly matched spatial scales, and at the same time, rates of spread and establishment are increasing under climate change and can outpace resources available for population suppression. These circumstances challenge traditional conservation goals of maintaining a historic environmental state, especially for a species like the European green crab (Carcinus maenas), a formidable invader with few examples of successful long‐term removal programs. A management paradigm where decision alternatives include resisting or accepting a new ecological trajectory may be needed. We apply mathematical concepts from decision theory to develop a quantitative framework for navigating management decisions in this new resist‐accept paradigm. We develop a model of European green crab growth, removal and colonization, and we find optimal levels of removal effort that minimize both ecological change and removal cost. We establish a benchmark of colonization pressure at which green crab density becomes decoupled from a decision maker's actions, such that population control can no longer shape the invasion trajectory. For informing the decision boundary between resistance and acceptance, our results highlight that a decision maker's understanding of how removal cost scales with removal effort is more important than understanding the density‐impact relationship. We show that assuming stationary system dynamics can result in sub‐optimal levels of species removal effort, highlighting the importance of developing anticipatory management strategies by accounting for non‐stationary dynamics. Policy implications. For marine invasive species that can disperse across long distances and recolonize rapidly after removal, the focus of conservation policy should shift away from understanding how to resist change to understanding when to stop resisting change. Navigating this decision problem involves trade‐offs among competing objectives, highlighting the need for structured approaches to elicit objective weights that reflect the values of the decision maker. For natural resource managers facing possible ecosystem transformation, this decision framework can enable proactive and strategic decisions made under uncertainty in a changing world.