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How red crabs on Christmas Island speak for the tropics

Research from Princeton University found that Christmas Island red crab's reproductive cycle closely follows precipitation patterns, suggesting a potential decline in population due to climate change. The study highlights the importance of studying tropical species' migration patterns in response to changing environmental conditions.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateOct 10, 2013

Invasive crabs help Cape Cod marshes

New research reveals that invasive green crabs are helping to restore Cape Cod's distressed salt marshes by filling the void left by declining native predators of sesarma crabs. The study found that green crab presence had a significant deterrent effect on sesarma herbivory, allowing grass regrowth in areas previously depleted.

SourceBrown University·JournalEcology·DateApr 3, 2013

Ship noise makes crabs get crabby

Researchers found that ship noise increases crab metabolic rate, indicating elevated stress, and larger crabs are affected most strongly. This study highlights the importance of reducing noise in busy shipping areas to protect commercially important crustacean species.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBiology Letters·DateFeb 26, 2013

'Shell-shocked' crabs can feel pain

A study found that common shore crabs are willing to trade a valued shelter to avoid future electric shock, suggesting they experience pain. The research highlights the need for better treatment of crustaceans in food industries like aquaculture.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJan 16, 2013

Surviving without ice

Researchers discovered Arctic crustaceans migrate below sea ice during winter nights, using deep-ocean currents to reach colder areas. This adaptation increases survival and enables them to remain in the Arctic Ocean, a key finding that challenges previous perceptions of ice fauna's vulnerability.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalBiology Letters·DateSep 13, 2012

Lifestyle of a killer

Researchers found Hematodinium sp. and its sister species are a major problem for crab fisheries, causing 'bitter crab' disease. The parasites have bacteria-like endosymbionts that increase their chances of survival outside the shrimp, leading to significant damage to infected crustaceans.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalAquatic Biosystems·DateSep 6, 2012

Deep-sea crabs grab grub using UV vision

Researchers discovered that deep-sea crabs can detect shorter wavelengths of light, including ultraviolet and blue light, allowing them to identify toxic corals and distinguish between edible plankton. This sensitivity may enable the crabs to color-code their food using UV vision.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateSep 6, 2012

'Lost world' discovered around Antarctic vents

A team of scientists has discovered communities of previously unknown species on the seafloor near Antarctica, clustered in hot, dark environments surrounding hydrothermal vents. The findings include new species of yeti crab, starfish, barnacles, and potentially an octopus.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 3, 2012

Life on Kosterhavet's seabed analyzed

Genoveva Gonzalez Mirelis analyzed over 2 million map tiles in Kosterhavet National Park to create a spatial distribution of benthic communities, including deepwater corals and Norway lobster. This method can help preserve environments and species for future generations by informing marine planning and regulations.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalMarine Biology·DateDec 13, 2011

Great Lakes fish feed on invading shrimp

Researchers found that several native fish species have incorporated the bloody red shrimp into their diet over multi-seasonal periods. The study suggests these fish are adapting to the invasive species, alleviating concerns about its impact on native populations.

SourceQueen's University·JournalJournal of Great Lakes Research·DateNov 22, 2011