Observation of a coral-dwelling gall crab (Cryptochiridae) in a dead coral host highlights their vulnerability to reef degradation

Abstract

Coral-associated fauna contributes greatly to coral reef biodiversity. Many species are obligately associated with their hosts on which they depend for food and/or refuge from predators. Their close relationship with their hosts makes them vulnerable to coral mortality. Here I report a coral-dwelling gall crab (Cryptochiridae) inhabiting a partially dead Echinopora Lamarck, 1816 coral, at Magoodhoo Island, Faafu Atoll, Maldives. Cryptochirids are thought to feed off the mucus provided by their coral host, although some questions about their feeding biology remain. This observation highlights that these crabs remain associated with a dead host, even if it can no longer provide nutrients. The strong host association makes gall crabs vulnerable to widespread habitat degradation.

Keywords:
Associated fauna; coral mortality; feeding biology; Maldives; Scleractinia; symbiosis