Hermit Crab Clibanarius Erythropus Research Articles

The range expansion of Clibanarius erythropus to the UK suggests that other range-shifting intertidal species may not follow

The ranges of species are shifting as a consequence of anthropogenic climate change. In the marine realm biogeographic transition zones could form barriers to dispersal and inhibit range-shift, but little is known about this potential effect. The hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus appeared in the UK in 2016 with the nearest reproducing population being on the northern coast of Brittany. This raises questions of which conditions may have permitted C. erythropus to cross the English Channel (7.25°W, 49.00°N) and whether this barrier could be overcome by other intertidal species. Dispersal simulations suggest the larvae of C. erythropus arrived in 2014, originated from North Brittany, experienced a mean temperature of around 16 °C, and took longer than 20 days to be transported across the channel. The transportation of larvae from Brittany to the southwest UK appears to be rare and driven by occasional, unusual ocean currents. The English Channel may continue to prevent species with pelagic larvae that settle within 20 days, such as many species of gastropod, annelids, and macroalgae, from successfully range expanding to the UK. North Brittany was the only landmass from which it is feasible the UK population of C. erythropus could have originated. Therefore, species with long-lived pelagic larvae but without reproducing populations in North Brittany may not appear in the southwest UK until the species are established in North Brittany. The English Channel could continue to limit the ability of many intertidal species to shift their range with climate change.

The status of Clibanarius erythropus after a recent range expansion to Great Britain, with the highest latitude recording of a gravid individual

BackgroundIn 2016, the range of the hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus expanded to South West Britain for the second time. C. erythropus primarily lives in the Mediterranean and the Atlantic coast of Europe from the Bay of Biscay to Morocco. The species has now been recorded on both the north and south coast of the South West peninsula of the UK from Newtrain Bay, on the north coast of Cornwall, to Wembury, on the south coast of Devon. It is unknown if the crab’s reappearance in the UK has been caused by a one-off colonisation event or by a continued influx of larvae.ResultsThe population in the UK is made up of individual within a narrow size bracket, indicating a single colonisation event took place, and that the population is an ageing one. However, we also report the highest latitude recording of a gravid individual for the species.ConclusionA lack of gravid individuals was suggested to be why the species was unable to sustain its presence in the UK following a previous colonisation in 1960. This discovery hints that rising water temperatures may allow C. erythropus and other warm-water species to expand and sustain themselves in the UK. We also found crossover in shell utilisation between C. erythropus and the native hermit crab Pagurus bernhardus, suggesting that competition might occur between the two species.

Air-exposure behavior: a restricted or a common conduct among intertidal hermit crabs?

Abstract A new behavior related to shell care was recently reported for the intertidal hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus (Latreille, 1818) in the Gulf of Cadiz (southwestern Europe). It also has been observed in other species of the diogenid genera Clibanarius Dana, 1952, and Calcinus Dana, 1951, however, it has not been described as an active behavior. In the present study, intertidal hermit crabs from different species and localities were sampled to assess if air-exposure is a shell cleaning behavior restricted to some species of intertidal hermit crabs or if it is a more generalized behavior among species inhabiting intertidal habitats. The results revealed that air-exposure is an active behavior in species of Clibanarius and Calcinus, since we observed it also in Clibanarius albidigitus Nobili, 1901, and Calcinus obscurus Stimpson, 1859, from the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, although not in other intertidal species studied by us. We found interspecific differences in tolerance to physical stress of emerged hermit crabs. This air-exposure tolerance can be interpreted as a physiological adaptation to desiccation stress and is also related to the shell type they inhabit. Also, we provide additional features and details of the air-exposure behavior, combining observations of the first description in 2015 with our new field observations.

Experimental predatory behavior of the stone crab Eriphia verrucosa (Forskål, 1775) (Decapoda, Brachyura, Eriphiidae)

Abstract Predatory behavior of the crab Eriphia verrucosa (Forskal, 1775) on the oyster Magallana angulata (Lamarck, 1819), the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis Lamarck, 1819, the limpet Patella depressa Pennant, 1777, the hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus (Latreille, 1818), the gastropod Phorcus lineatus (da Costa, 1778) and the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus (Lamarck, 1816) was experimentally studied. Taken into account that the sampled population of E. verrucosa was infected with the parasitic barnacle Sacculina eriphiae Smith, 1906, four predator categories were established regarding crab sex and parasite presence: uninfected and infected males and females, respectively. These four crab categories were fed on the six preys offered, but prey remains suggest that the crab obtains the flesh of each prey using different methods of attack. Irrespective of the prey species, uninfected females consistently presented lower percentages of crab feeding and total consumption. On average, it was found that a significantly higher percentage of crabs feed on M. galloprovincialis, P. depressa and Ph. lineatus than on the other three prey species (chi-squared test, p < 0.05). In terms of mean eaten biomass, the preys most eaten were P. lividus and P. depressa and the least eaten was C. erythropus (ANOVA test, p < 0.05). For crabs feeding on M. galloprovincialis and Ph. lineatus there was a significant positive correlation (p < 0.05) between the predator size and prey size, as well as between the predator size and total prey consumption. According to these results, potential effects of this top predator on intertidal communities are also discussed.

Sex- and size-related differences in shell use by the intertidal hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus (Latreille, 1818) (Decapoda: Diogenidae) in the Gulf of Cádiz, southwestern Spain

Clibanarius erythropus (Latreille, 1818) is the dominant hermit crab in intertidal rocky habitats of the Gulf of Cadiz (southwestern Spain). Three different populations of this species were sampled during the reproductive (July 2014) and non-reproductive (October 2014) periods to assess shell use patterns in the field by different demographic groups in absence of interspecific competition for shell-resource use. Irrespective of sampling sites and periods considered, sex ratios were female-biased (2.3 on average), and mean sizes of males were greater than those for females. At least shells from 31 different gastropods were used by C. erythropus in the Gulf of Cadiz. Shell selection was largely determined by the sizes of the hermit crab and shells. As result, a generalist pattern of shell use was displayed by this species. Most hermit crabs with shield length > 4.5 mm were males and the less abundant larger shells were occupied by these large males. Statistically significant sex-related (males vs. females) and size-related (small males vs. large males) differences in shell use were observed at two sampling sites with higher shell diversity, suggesting partial intraspecific partitioning of shell resource. There was a negative effect of carrying relatively heavy/large shells on the stage condition (males and females) and on clutch size of ovigerous females, suggesting that protection from predators was prioritised.

Shell recruitment in the Mediterranean hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus

Gastropod shells are vital for the majority of hermit crab species, being essential for their survival, growth, protection, and reproduction. Given their importance, shells are acquired and transferred between crabs through several modalities. We conducted observations and experiments at the Asinara Island (Sardinia, Italy) to investigate the efficacy of the different behavioral tactics adopted by the hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus to acquire shells, such as: (1) locomotion and activity at different tidal phases; (2) attendance at shell-supplying sites (simulated predation sites with five different odors: live and dead gastropods, live and dead crabs, predator); and (3) interactions with conspecifics in aggregations on simulated gastropod predation sites. In each tidal phase, locomotion was slow (0.7 cm min − 1 ) and, as a consequence, the probability of encountering empty shells and conspecifics was low. Simulated gastropod predation sites quickly attracted a larger number of hermit crabs than the other sites tested. Aggregations seemed to function as shell exchange markets, as previously suggested for other species: the first attendant took the experimental shell and a chain of shell exchanges among conspecifics followed. Our results show that, in C. erythropus, aggregation is the most efficient tactic for the acquisition of new shells, whereas in other species, such as Pagurus longicarpus, it is associated with exploitation ability due to the intense locomotion. The interspecific plasticity in hermit crabs' behavior is confirmed.

Technical improvements of a rearing system for the culture of decapod crustacean larvae, with emphasis on marine ornamental species

The present study compares the efficiency of cylindrico-spherical (CST) and cylindrico-conical tanks (CCT) to culture the larvae of decapod crustaceans, with emphasis to marine ornamental species, and describes a new filter system to flush uneaten preys. The ornamental shrimps Lysmata debelius, Lysmata seticaudata and Stenopus hispidus, the ornamental crab Stenorhynchus seticornis and the ornamental hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus were used as case studies. The two types of tanks displayed different water circulation patterns, with the inflowing water in CST being pushed towards the spherical bottom and vertical tank walls, in a gentle upwelling motion, while in CCT the inflowing water was abruptly pushed towards the surface at the center of the tank. In comparison to the “traditional” system, the average time required to replace the mesh screens to flush uneaten preys was inferior when employing the new filter system (30 and 5 s per tank, respectively). The average survival to metamorphosis (± standard error) recorded for L. seticaudata was higher in CST (97.25 ± 0.50%) than in CCT (94.25 ± 0.96%), with a higher percentage of L. debelius larvae in CST also being able to metamorphose (33.75 ± 4.77%), when compared to those in CCT (6.50 ± 3.79%). S. hispidus larvae displayed higher survival to the fifth zoeal stage when raised in CST (93.25 ± 2.99%) than when cultured in CCT (66.50 ± 4.20%). A higher number of C. erythropus were able to successfully occupy gastropod shells and metamorphose in CST (80.25 ± 5.12%) than in CCT (4.25 ± 2.22%). S. seticornis cultured in CST displayed higher survival to metamorphosis than those cultured in CCT (76.25 ± 3.40% and 16.00 ± 2.58%, respectively). A higher percentage of L. seticaudata and L. debelius larvae at the last zoeal stage displayed intact fifth pereiopods in CST (96.02 ± 3.40% and 88.15 ± 8.70%, respectively), when compared to those raised in CCT (83.95 ± 3.86% and 36.54 ± 3.10%, respectively). The percentage of S. hispidus larvae displaying an undamaged rostrum and dorsal abdominal spine was higher in CST than in CCT (95.71 ± 4.19% and 61.84 ± 2.50%, respectively). Along with the new filter system, CST appear as a feasible option for the larviculture of decapods, namely marine ornamental species (shrimps, crabs and hermit crabs), allowing a better use of inert diets and minimizing the risks of larval mortality due to tangling damage, cannibalism and the action of opportunistic pathogens over damaged larvae.

Reproductive Biology of Mediterranean Hermit Crabs: Male Reproductive Apparatus of Clibanarius Erythropus (Decapoda Anomura)

Abstract The male gonopores, internal male reproductive apparatus, and spermatophores of the Mediterranean hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus are described, using interference phase microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. A discussion on the relationship between the gonopore morphology and the different kinds of setae accompanying them, and the reproductive biology of these crabs is presented. Each testis merges into a tubular duct made up of four zones: 1) the collecting tubule with free sperm; 2) the proximal zone, where the ampulla of the spermatophore starts to be formed; 3) the medial zone, where the ampulla is completed, the stalk lengthens and the pedestal is formed; 4) the distal zone, where the mature spermatophores are stored. In the mature spermatophore the two halves of the ampulla meet at the distinct lateral ridge. Sizes of the different parts of the spermatophore are given and their morphology described. The importance of the morphology of the paguroid gonopore, male reproductive syste...

Foraging behaviour of the hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus in a Mediterranean shore

Field studies were carried out along a Mediterranean rocky shore to describe the foraging behaviour of the hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus, a common intertidal Diogenidae. The spatial strategy adopted during foraging activity was investigated through monitoring the movement of ten individuals, each followed for two hours. This revealed that hermit crabs maximized the space explored while in search of food and that shell type was one factor influencing the extent of movement. The evaluation of hermit abundance on different algal substrates provided clues to understanding the pattern of food utilization. This study shows that ‘generalist’ hermit crabs display a certain degree of selectivity, mostly foraging on assemblages of filamentous algae and corticated macrophytes. The conclusion is that C. erythropus selects substrates where good foraging can occur; whether hermit crabs eat within the selected substrates every food item they encounter or select food at the level of individual items is still an unanswered question.

Shell occupancy of the intertidal hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus (Decapoda, Diogenidae) on São Miguel (Azores)

The intertidal hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus was collected at three sites on Sao Miguel (Azores) during low spring tides. Shells occupied were identified and measured. Crab sizes ranged from 1.78 to 13.67 mm (cephalothoracic shield length), with an average size of 4.40 ± 1.44 mm. Of the 19 different shells utilised, the most frequent were Littorina striata (23.8%), Nassarius incrassatus (22.5%) and Mitra sp. (22.0%). At Fenais da Luz, L. striata was most frequently occupied, while at Agua de Alto it was N. incrassatus and, at Caloura, Mitra sp. shells were most frequently used. Shell selection appears to be determined by respective sizes of hermit crab and shell species. Small size-class crabs occupy more shell species than larger crabs. The smallest crab was found at Fenais da Luz occupying a small Bittium sp., whereas the largest crab was found at Caloura inhabiting Stramonita haemastoma.

Effect of different dietary carotenoids on the pigmented pattern of the hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus Latreille (Crustacea: Decapoda)

Abstract The purpose of this work is to investigate the pigmentary fate of dietary carotenoids in the hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus receiving synthetic pigments. The animals have been previously depigmented and fed on a carotenoid-free diet during three consecutive moulting cycles. Three experimental diets containing β-carotene from carrots, synthetic canthaxanthin, and astaxanthin were used. The abilities of the animal to metabolize carotenoids having different oxidation levels, have been investigated.

Larval development and delayed metamorphosis in the hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus (Latreille) (Crustacea, Diogenidae)

Larvae of the hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus (Latreille) were reared in the laboratory at five different temperatures (12, 15, 18, 20 and 30°C). None developed to the juvenile at the two lowest temperatures tested. Survival up to the megalopa was high (87–100%) between 18 and 30°C, but only a few megalope developed to the first juvenile instar (10–27%). Metamorphosis to the juvenile could be increased by providing gastropod shells to the megalopa stage. Megalopae accepted gastropod shells when they were ≈ days old. At this age megalope also reached the “point of resever saturation”. Metamorphosis was delayed up to 12 days when gastropod shells were offered to the megalopae late in development, corresponding to a delay of 70% compared to the developmental duration when shells were available immediately after moulting to the megalopa stage. Food was essential for the magalopae only during the first 8 days; later starvation did not influence developmental duration, but may have affected survival.

Disappearance of the warm-water hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus from south-west Britain

The hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus first reported from Britain in 1961 is no longer present. There appears to have been no further recruitment since the late 1950s when there was a favourable combination of climate and hydrographical factors that led to successful invasion of Devon and Cornwall.The population appears to have succumbed to the combined effect of age and declining temperatures. Additional contributory factors in the decline could be the mortalities resulting from the ‘Torrey Canyon’ disaster; the reduction in numbers of the dog-whelk (whose empty shells are the favoured home of the crab in Britain) as a result of organotin antifouling paints; and increased public pressure on the habitat.

Osmotic regulation in the hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus

The hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus can accommodate experimental variations of salinity. The survival limits approach 50 mEq Na+/I and 1100 mEq Na+/I in ambient water. The animals were submitted to salinities varying from 5%. to 80%. at a constant temperature of 19°. Haemolymph appears to be isoosmotic towards ambient water; nevertheless it becomes slightly hyperosmotic at lower concentrations. An exchange of water between the animal and the environment occurs following the salinity of the media. Weight increases for concentrations below 37%. and decreases beyond this value. Clibanarius erythropus shows physiological responses differing from those already established for other Coenobitoidea, since it does not have marked hyperosmotic regulation in diluted media. This result discounts the hypothesis of a unique osmoregulatory capacity for all members of the Coenobitoidea superfamily.

The carotenoids of the hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus latreille (1818) (Crustacea, decapoda, anomoura) during the moulting cycle—I. Quantitative aspects

1. 1. The aim of this study is to determine the effects of the moulting cycle on the metabolism of carotenoids of the hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus. 2. 2. Nine moulting stages have been defined. 3. 3. Important modifications of the carotenoid content of the epidermis, the hepatopancreas and the haemolymph are found to occur. 4. 4. Carotenoid quantitative fluctuations result from a transfer of pigment between the different tissues. 5. 5. The epidermis appears as a carotenoid storage organ. 6. 6. The carotenoid content of the carapace remains constant all along the moulting cycle.