Established population of the North American Harris mud crab, Rhithropanopeus harrisii (Gould 1841) (Crustacea: Brachyura: Xanthidae) in the Panamá Canal
Date
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
Rhithropanopeus harrisii (Gould, 1841) is an estuarine crab native to the East Coast of North America. This species has invaded both the West Coast of the United States and several European countries since the late 1800s where it has reportedly altered native ecosystems. This crab can tolerate a broad range of salinities and temperatures, which probably contributes to its success as an invader. In 1969, five specimens of R. harrisii were recorded in Panama, but subsequent surveys suggest it was not established. Here, evidence is reported of an established, reproducing population of R. harrisii in the Panama Canal. The crab's entire distribution within this waterway remains to be determined and potential changes in its ecology, especially given the imminent expansion of the Canal, need to be evaluated.