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Dryad

Data from: Shelter availability mediates decorating in the majoid crab, Camposcia retusa

Cite this dataset

Brooker, Rohan M.; Muñoz Ruiz, Enid C.; Sih, Tiffany L.; Dixson, Danielle L. (2017). Data from: Shelter availability mediates decorating in the majoid crab, Camposcia retusa [Dataset]. Dryad. https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.602hq

Abstract

While numerous aquatic and terrestrial species adorn their surface with items secured from their surroundings, termed decorating, the physical and environmental factors that drive this behaviour are often unclear. One of the best-known examples of this phenomenon are the decorator crabs (Majoidea), with almost 75% of species known to decorate. Here, we examined patterns of decorating in a coral reef-associated majoid, Camposcia retusa, to identify what factors determine patterns of, and investment in, decorating. Observations of natural decoration patterns indicate this species primarily decorate with sponges, fleshy and filamentous algae, and detritus. Decorations were primarily distributed on the carapace and hind walking legs which may reflect exoskeleton morphology. However, decoration cover did not decline with size, as is observed in some other majoid species, suggesting the factors driving decoration investment remain consistent throughout growth stages. From behavioural experiments, we determined that non-uniform decorating is a result of active selection, with crabs preferentially decorating their hind legs and carapace, with only small items placed on the carapace. Decorating in C. retusa appears to function primarily as an anti-predator response, with crabs decorating at higher rates when access to shelter is limited. This study is the first to quantify the decorating habits of C. retusa and suggests that behaviourally-mediated decorating has a primary anti-predator function. This study also highlights the value of manipulative behavioural experiments as a tool for assessing the behavioural mechanisms that drive decorating in animals.

Usage notes

Location

Philippines
Indo-Pacific