Population structure and shell use in the hermit crab, Clibanarius erythropus: a comparison between Mediterranean and Atlantic shores

Abstract

Two populations of Clibanarius erythropus from Mediterranean and Atlantic rocky shores were studied to provide data on morphometry, population structure and shell use under different environmental contexts. Hermit crab sex and size were analysed as well as genus, dimension and status of the inhabited shells. A comparison between the two populations gave particular emphasis to the morphological and eco-ethological plasticity of this hermit species.