Morphology, growth and behaviour of Ocypode ceratophthalma (Pallas, 1772) (Decapoda: Brachyura: Ocypodidae) from Goa, west coast of India

Abstract

Intertidal brachyuran fauna of the estuarine sandy beaches of Goa are vulnerable to large-scale anthropogenic activities. The present study deals with morphology and growth patterns of the horned ghost crab Ocypode ceratophthalma (Pallas, 1772) from two impacted beaches (Bambolim and Siridao). Sampling surveys conducted at the two beaches during July 2015, September 2015 and January 2016 yielded 60 specimens of the species. A comprehensive taxonomic diagnosis of the species is provided aided by 22 morphometric characters, 16 morphometric ratios, one meristic count and genital characters. Assessment of morphometric parameters revealed marked sexual dimorphism with respect to proportions of abdomen and eyestalks. Assessment of growth patterns revealed positive allometric growth of male carapace as well as that of female abdomen indicating sexual maturity.