Analysis of Length/Width-Weight and Condition Factor Revealed Smaller Crab Sizes of Thalamita crenata (Rüpell, 1830) in Butuan Bay, Philippines

Jess H. Jumawan; Paul John B. Pastor; Ronald B. Cadavez

doi:10.22146/jtbb.20162

Jess H. Jumawan Department of Biology, College of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Caraga State University, Butuan City, 8600, Philippines https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5459-1932
Paul John B. Pastor Department of Biology, College of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Caraga State University, Butuan City, 8600, Philippines https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1780-6433
Ronald B. Cadavez Department of Biology, College of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Caraga State University, Butuan City, 8600, Philippines; Department of Education, Tungao National High School Butuan City, 8600, Philippines

DOI: https://doi.org/10.22146/jtbb.20162

Keywords: Allometry, Condition Factor, Mangrove Crabs, Marine Ecology, Morphometrics

Abstract

The marine ecosystem of Butuan Bay, Philippines, supports a diverse array of crab species, including the Thalamita crenata (crenate swimming crab), which plays a vital role in coastal ecology and fisheries. The study examined T. crenata samples from sites with remaining occurrences in Butuan Bay, Philippines and aimed to understand the ecological and biological dynamics of Thalamita crenata in Butuan Bay by analysing their morphometric relationships, condition factors (CF), and spatial-sexual dimorphism. Morphometric data from Butuan Bay were analysed to determine growth relationships, condition factors, and spatial-sexual differences in size and marketable sizes between sexes and locations (Cabadbaran and Buenavista). Results showed significant spatial and sexual dimorphism, with larger crabs and higher median CF values (p < 0.01) found in Cabadbaran site (than in Buenavista site Male crabs were larger than females, consistent with crustacean patterns. The power model best described the weight-carapace length (WT-CL) and width (WT-CW) relationships, revealing negative allometry (WT-CL: b = 0.3286, R² = 0.6820, p < 0.01; WT-CW: b = 0.3014, R² = 0.7478, p < 0.01. The study highlights the influence of localised environmental factors and emphasizes the need for targeted conservation efforts, including enforcing size limits, protecting habitats, and regulating fishing practices. Restoration efforts and continued monitoring are essential to ensure the sustainable exploitation of T. crenata and maintain its ecological and economic importance.

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