Studies on sex pheromones of the helmet crab, Telmessus cheiragonus 1. An assay based on precopulatory mate-guarding

Abstract

A new reliable bioassay method has been developed for detection of female sex pheromone(s) of the helmet crab Telmessus cheiragonus using artificial sponges based on the grasping behavior of male crabs. The seawater, male urine, and pre- and postmolt female urine were tested for pheromonal activity which resulted in the detection of activity only in urine from pre- and postmolt females.