| Abstract |
Observations on Gecarcinus lateralis and Ocypode quadrata from Bermuda show that their cuticular
terraces are not functional as burrowing sculptures, as previously assumed. Instead, they increase the
friction against the walls of the burrow when the animal wedges itself to avoid being extracted by
predators. No significant increase in the number of terraces takes place during growth in the size interval
available for this study. This is different from the situation described as usual in burrowing decapods, and
is rather similar to that of crevice-dwelling crabs. The distribution of terraces and their ontogenetic
pattern, therefore, are not reliable indicators of the life habits. • Functional morphology, ontogeny,
cuticular sculptures, Decapoda, Crustace |
