Effect of lunar periodicity on the abundance of crabs from the Goa Coast

Abstract

Lunar periodicity showed a significant influence on the occurrence of edible crabs (@iPortunus pelagicus, Charybdis cruciata and Portunus sanguinolentus@@). High density of these crabs was recorded in the trawl catches during full moon and new moon. There was a strong seasonality in the occurrence of individual species. Total body weight revealed significant differences and higher values were recorded during new moon and full moon whereas, low values during intermediate phase. Similarly percentage of moisture and protein was higher during new moon and full moon and lower during intermediate phase, with the exception of @iP. sanguinolentus@@