Journal of Biodiversity & Endangered Species

Studies on the Prevalence of Sacculina Spp. Infestation in Portunus Sanguinolentus (Herbst, 1783) from Parangipettai Coastal Waters, Southeast Coast of India

Abstract

S M Raffi, V Elumalai, D Selvam, T V Suresh, M Pravinkumar, C Viswanathan and K Jaganathan

The presence of the external sacs on parasitic barnacles is the most unusual characteristic found in these genera. This barnacle belongs to genus rhizocephala that parasitizes crabs. Parasitization by sacculinids induces severe modifications in morphology, behavior and reproduction of their host (Brachyuran crabs: Portunus sanquinolentus). The present field study was carried out two landing center from Annankoil and Mudasalodai during January 2011– December 2011. It was found that total catch of infected crab was 12.4% from Annankoil and Mudasalodai landing center. The frequently infected male and female crab ratio was 66.3% and 33.7%. External parasites were found on crabs ranging from 56 mm to 88 mm in carapace width.