Orientation of the blue crabCallinectes sapidusRathbun: Role of celestial cues

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Abstract
Although the blue crab is a subtidal benthic species it is frequently observed in the shallows or swimming near the surface where it can see the sun and sky. To test the hypothesis of celestial orientation we tested blue crabs in a 1 m dia. cone obliterating all visual cues except the sun and the sky. Freshly collected crabs demonstrated sun‐compass orientation directed in the offshore axis of the collection sites. Phase shifting by photoperiod caused a predicted shift in directionality. Blue crabs conceivably use the sun as a guidepost during long‐distance migrations as well as during intertidal movements.