Evaluation of different induced molting methods in Callinectes ornatus (Crustacea, Decapoda, Portunidae) as a tool for the commercial production of soft-shell crabs.

We investigated the effects of eyestalk ablation and cheliped autotomy in inducing molting in Callinectes ornatus. The specimens in intermolt stage were divided into two size classes: 1 (30-50 mm) and 2 (51-70 mm) and were further divided into four experimental groups. In the CA group (Cheliped Autotomy, n=76), crabs were submitted to cheliped autotomy; in the UA group (Unilateral Ablation, n=66) and BA group (Bilateral Ablation, n=66) to unilateral and bilateral eyestalk ablation, respectively.

Harmful effects of Dinophysis to the ciliate Mesodinium rubrum: Implications for prey capture.

Toxigenic Dinophysis spp. are obligate mixotrophic dinoflagellates that require a constant supply of prey-Mesodinium rubrum-to achieve long-term growth by means of kleptoplasty. Mesodinium rubrum is, however, a fast moving, jumping ciliate exhibiting an effective escape response from suspensivorous predators.