Study of some morphometric traits, condition factor and growth parameters of the ghost crab Ocypode rotundata Miers, 1882 in Qeshm Island, Persian Gulf

Abstract

In this study, sexual dimorphism and growth traits of Ocypode rotundata were investigated. 736 individuals were collected in Qeshm Island, eastern Persian Gulf, from February 2015 to January 2016. 392 males (mean carapace width of 35.33 mm) and 344 females (mean carapace width of 32.94 mm) were examined to estimate morphometric parameters. All the measured parameters except for the body height ratio showed significant differences between two sexes (P < 0.05). Allometric growth was obtained for both sexes. Condition factor was significantly higher in males (0.051) than that of females (0.05). Monthly variation in the condition factor was correlated with temperature variation and the lowest condition factor was observed in winter. Asymptotic carapace width (CW∞), growth rate (k) and maximum life span were estimated as 60.2 mm, 0.73 per year and 4 years for males,and 54 mm, 1.2 per year and 2.5 years for females, respectively. Based on these results, growth parameters were different between sexes. Also, the morphometric traits showed sexual dimorphism in this species. Condition factor was affected by the monthly temperature variation. The results derived of this study will help in determining strategies for further conservation and management policies to preserve the biodiversity of sandy beaches.

Keywords

• carapace width
• condition factor
• growth parameter
• ocypode rotundata