AN ANALYSIS OF THE MOLTING PROCESS IN THE FIDDLER CRAB, UCA PUGILATOR

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Abstract
The molting cycle of the fiddler crab is treated in a quantitative manner with respect to changes in coloration which precede ecdysis, water uptake and dimensional changes associated with ecdysis and changes in mineral composition during the molting cycle. Differences between normal and destalked animals were detected, suggesting a role of the eyestalk hormones in the regulation of mineral metabolism, water metabolism and growth. A diurnal rhythm of water uptake is reported for normal animals; such a rhythm is absent in destalked forms. Dimensional increases are observed after ecdysis in destalked animals while those with intact eyestalks retain their pre-ecdysis dimensions. Evidence is presented which indicates that a hormone source within the eyestalks acts primarily on anionic metabolism rather than specifically on Ca metabolism during the period of postmolt hardening.