Segregation by size in the mouthless crab Cardisoma crassum (Brachyura: Gecarcinidae) from Ponuga, Veraguas, Panama

The mouthless crab Cardisoma crassum is an important socioeconomic fishery resource; thus, understanding its distribution pattern key for management. present study aimed to determine if crabs show segregation by size in contrasting habitat types. Three plots were sampled from February June 2022 collect data on biometric variables Ponuga, Veraguas, Panama Pacific. A total of 151 with average cephalothorax width 56.24 ± 8.56 mm captured; 97 male and 54 female. This proportion difference was significantly skewed towards males at 1.8:1. Subjects plot 1 larger heavier than those 2 3. Ovigerous females found only during (rainy season). minimum functionally mature 47.11 mm. By this measure, higher proportions all more abundant 1. Small segregated 3; the origin associated. first report crassum. findings highlight importance features lead way further studies factors influencing pattern.