THE EFFECTS OF EYESTALK, LEG, AND UROPOD REMOVAL ON THE MOLTING AND GROWTH OF YOUNG CRAYFISH,PROCAMBARUS CLARKII

Abstract
The molt interval and growth rate of the crayfish P. clarkii were studied during 5 consecutive molts when the eyestalks, legs or uropods were removed. Mortality during the 8-mo. experimental period was 5 of 23 for the untreated crayfish, 12 of 23 for the eyestalkless group, 2 of 23 for the legless group and 2 of 23 for the uropodless group. Compared to the untreated group, the removal of a pair of eyestalks induces precocious molt and acccelerates growth. Removal of 3 pairs of walking legs or a pair of uropods induces precocious molt without any effects on body growth.