Biology of the Rock Crab Charybdis Natator (Herbst) (Brachyura: Portunidae)
Trapping methods were used to sample a population of the crab, Charybdis natator, in Moreton Bay, Queensland. Males outnumbered females in the catch by almost two to one, but females were more abundant in catches during June–July, possibly because of increased feeding activity
prior to the main spring spawning period. Female C. natator had two spawning peaks; a major peak in spring and a secondary peak in autumn. They were also capable of at least three ovulations per maturity instar. Examination of ovaries indicated little reproductive activity during winter.
Fecundity estimates of ovigerous females ranged from 181,000 to 976,000. The reproductive biology of C. natator was similar to that of other subtropical portunids found in the region.
Document Type: Research Article
Publication date: 01 March 1990
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