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Distribution of the Fiddler Crabs,Uca pugnax andUca minax, in Relation to Salinity in Delaware Rivers

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Chesapeake Science

Abstract

The distribution and abundance of the fiddler crabs,Uca pugnax andU. minax were determined in relation to salinity in three tidal tributaries of Delaware Bay, U.S.A. OnlyUca pugnax was present in high salinity (21–29 o/oo) whileU. minax was present in lower salinities and even in fresh water. Their distributions overlapped along the salinity gradient and both species were equally abundant in salinities of 8–12 o/oo. There was a statistically significant positive association between abundance and salinity forUca pugnax and a negative association forU. minax.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Zoology, Millersville State College, 17551, Millersville, Pennsylvania

    Kenneth G. Miller

  2. Field Station College of Marine Studies, University of Delaware, 19958, Lewes, Delaware

    Don Maurer

Authors
  1. Kenneth G. Miller
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  2. Don Maurer
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College of Marine Studies Contribution No. 83.

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Miller, K.G., Maurer, D. Distribution of the Fiddler Crabs,Uca pugnax andUca minax, in Relation to Salinity in Delaware Rivers. Chesapeake Science 14, 219–221 (1973). https://doi.org/10.2307/1350613

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.2307/1350613

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