DefinePK

Abstract

This study examines the seasonal variations and diversity of Ocypodidae crabs inhabiting the Sandspit backwater mangrove ecosystem along the Karachi coast. A total of 79 crabs were recorded across the different tidal zones (low, mid, and high) within three stations from July 2023 to February 2024, covering pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon seasons. Four species were identified: Austruca annulipes, Austruc alactea, Tubuca urvillei, and Ocypode rotundata during whole study period. Seasonal variations were observed, within the highest numbers recorded in the post-monsoon season and the lowest during the monsoon. Austruca annulipes was the most dominant species in the study area. These findings align with previous studies and highlighted the ecological significance of Ocypodidae crabs in mangrove habitats. The results contribute to understanding mangrove-associated crab diversity in Pakistan and highlight the need for long-term monitoring of environmental parameters influencing crab populations.