Insights into the Habitat Choice for the Culture of Himalayapotamon emphysetum under Laboratory Conditions

Menakshi Dhar*, Seema Langer and Chakshu Gupta

Department of Zoology, University of Jammu, Jammu, India.

Corresponding Author E-mail:dharmenakshi1996@gmail.com

DOI : http://dx.doi.org/10.13005/bbra/3051

ABSTRACT: The main aim of the present study was to scrutinize the substrate and microhabitat preferred by the Himalayapotamon emphysetum under laboratory conditions. In the first experiment, different substrates: gravel, stones, and cobbles were placed in the round plastic containers, and in the second experiment: grass, aquatic plants, and wood fragments were used as microhabitats for analyzing the preference of the crab species. Minimum mortality was observed when the crabs were provided with the substrate of stones and wood fragments as the microhabitat. The results of the present study provide a better understanding of the breeding and culture of commercially important crab species of Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory and can be used as a reference for determining the culture conditions for Himalaypotamon emphysetum that will boost the economy of this region. The studies related to the preference of habitat and substrate of any species is essential for aquaculture and breeding programs.

KEYWORDS: Decapods; Freshwater Crabs; Himalayapotamon emphysetum; Microhabitat; Substrate

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