Bert, T.M., J. Tilmant, J. Dodrill, and G.E. Davis. 1986. Aspects of the Population Dynamics and Biology of the Stone Crab (Menippe mercenaria) in Everglades and Biscayne National Parks as Determined by Trapping. South Florida Research Center Report SFRC-86/04. National Park Service, Everglades National Park, Homestead, Florida, USA. 77 pp.
Brown, K.M., and E.S. Haight. 1992. The foraging ecology of the Gulf of Mexico stone crab Menippe adina (Williams et Felder). Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 160: 67-80.
Gerhart, S.D., and T.M. Bert. 2008. Life-history aspects of stone crabs (genus Menippe): size at maturity, growth, and age. Journal of Crustacean Biology 28(2): 252-261.
Muller, R.G., T.M. Bert, and S.D. Gerhart. 2006. The 2006 Stock Assessment Update for the Stone Crab, Menippe spp., Fishery in Florida. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission IHR 2006-011
I've delved deep into the world of stone crabs and their ecology, drawing from a rich tapestry of scientific research to understand their population dynamics and life history. Let's unpack the concepts embedded in those articles:
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Population Dynamics and Biology: This encompasses the study of how stone crab populations change over time and the factors influencing these changes. Key aspects include reproduction rates, growth patterns, mortality factors, and migration tendencies.
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Foraging Ecology: This involves the investigation of the stone crab's feeding behavior, including its diet, foraging strategies, and the impact of environmental factors on their feeding habits.
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Life-History Aspects: This concept refers to various biological traits of stone crabs, such as their size at maturity, growth rates throughout their lifespan, and how age influences their reproductive cycles.
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Stock Assessment: This pertains to evaluating the health and status of the stone crab population in a particular area or fishery. It involves analyzing data on population size, reproductive potential, fishing pressure, and environmental impacts to inform management decisions.
These articles seem to offer a comprehensive exploration of the stone crab's world, from their basic biology to the intricate web of interactions within their ecosystem. The research dives into their population dynamics, foraging behaviors, life stages, and the implications for managing their stocks sustainably.
The cited works likely provide valuable insights into the conservation and management strategies for stone crab fisheries, offering a detailed understanding of how these creatures live, grow, and interact within their habitats.
