Interpopulational differences in the female reproductive cycle of the southwestern Atlantic estuarine crab Chasmagnathus granulatus Dana, 1851 (Brachyura: Grapsoidea: Varunidae)

摘要: The female reproductive biology of Chasmagnathus granulatus Dana, a semiterrestrial burrowing crab endemic to the southwestern Atlantic, was compared in two contrasting coastal habitats: San Antonio (SA, marine) and Mar Chiquita (MC, estuarial). Mature females were collected monthly for 1.5 years ovarian cycle described using qualitative scale. Gonadosomatic (GSI) hepatosomatic (HSI) indexes calculated. highest GSI HSI occurred early season SA during non-reproductive MC. beginning duration also differed between populations: it started later shorter SA. In MC, secondary vitellogenesis continued when had finished, ovaries remained fully developed throughout (winter). Therefore, MC ready lay eggs as soon spring environmental conditions appeared. However, did not attain ovary winter. A limited food supply would restrict available energy complete at end SA, after last spawning. Thus, vitellogenic should be completed following spring, causing delay period. addition, higher temperature amplitude may cause period early.