Morphometric Diversity and Population Structure of the Crucifix Crab (Charybdis feriatus) in East Asian Recreational Fisheries
Journal
Water
Journal Volume
17
Journal Issue
5
Start Page
688
ISSN
2073-4441
Date Issued
2025-02-27
Author(s)
Abstract
This study delves into the fascinating morphological diversity and population groups of the Crucifix crab (Charybdis feriatus), a species steeped in the cultural and spiritual significance of recreational fisheries across East and Southeast Asia. It is known in the West as the “Crucifix crab” due to the distinct cross pattern on its shell. In this research, we collected 759 specimens from seven estuarine locations: Kyushu (Japan), Shanghai, Xiamen, Hong Kong (China), Yilan, Kaohsiung (Taiwan), and Singapore. Using advanced statistical methods, including canonical variate analysis (CVA) and hierarchical clustering, we identified three distinct population groups: the Northeast Asian group (NAG), the Kuroshio tributary group (KTG), and the Southeast Asian group (SAG). Significant morphological differences were found between these populations, suggesting that the crab’s adaptation to varying sea environments is as unique as its symbolic cross-shaped marking. The canonical variate analysis revealed that the first two eigenvalues explained 88% of the total variance (61% and 27%, respectively) in females and 80% in males (62% and 18%, respectively). The key morphometric traits CP1 (frontal teeth) and CP4 (posterior margin) showed the highest variability (correlation coefficients ranging from 0.76 to 0.82, p < 0.001). Interestingly, the traits CP1 (frontal teeth) and CP4 (posterior margin) emerged as key drivers of allometric growth variation, further enriching our understanding of this species.
Subjects
morphometric variation
ornamental symbolism
population differentiation
recreational fishery
Publisher
MDPI AG
Type
journal article