Physiological maturity and relationships of growth and reproduction in the redmangrove crab Goniopsis cruentata (Latreille) (Brachyura, Grapsidae)on the coast of Sao Paulo, Brazil

Abstract

This investigation provided information on the physiological sexual maturity and relationships of growth and reproduction in Goniopsis cruentata (Latreille,1803). Collections were made monthly from January 1995 through December 1996,on the northeastern coast of Sao Paulo State, Brazil. The crabs were grouped into juvenile males; adult males; juvenile females, and adult females, including ovigerous ones. For each specimen the carapace width (CW) was measured, andmolt condition and macroscopic developmental stage of the gonad tissue were recorded. CWs of physiologically mature crabs were between 21.4 and 23.7 mm forboth sexes. This population showed molt activity in all size groups throughout the study period, which suggests continuous growth and the absence of terminal anecdysis. This may be associated with the ability of these animals to copulate during the intermolt, supplying a high proportion of mature individuals over time and ensuring continuity of reproduction year-round.