Sexual selection in hermit crabs: a review and outlines of future research

摘要: The information currently available on sexual selection in hermit crabs is reviewed to identify the role of males and females before, during after mating. According this information, possible mechanisms male–male competition, female choice and/or conflict are suggested. Important male components that may affect mating success include dragging shell, rotations female’s shell cheliped palpations, size characteristics (species size). Possible determinants mating/fertilization (as an indicator egg production capacity), signalling receptivity males, delay from mate guarding copulation duration. Avenues for deeper exploration number morphometry tubes sperm transfer, whether ejaculate can be adjusted with variable situations competition intensity risk. In it would interesting investigate chemical behavioural affecting spermatophore breakage release duration transfer spawning. Given these possibilities, externally deposited body but inside her (except those species do not use shells, e.g. Birgus ,o r where shells rather small cover totally, Parapagurus), we conclude unique subjects separating effects, particularly respect applicability current ideas such as conflict. Some practical provided disentangle both hypotheses using animals.