Experiments with claw models explain the function of the waving display of Ilyoplax pusilla (Brachyura: Dotillidae)

Abstract

Males of the dotillid crab, Ilyoplax pusilla, perform waving displays during the reproductive season. Unlike many fiddler crabs (genus Uca), however, the function of the waving display is unclear for this species. Experiments using waving and static claw models over short (10 cm) and long (25 cm) distances were conducted to investigate responses by wandering females to artificial waving signals. In long-distance choice experiments, presuming undirected waving to unseen females as broadcast waving, females were equally likely to approach the waving and static claw sections during the non-reproductive season, but significantly more females (65 %) chose the waving claw section during the reproductive season. In short-distance choice experiments, presuming directed courtship waving toward a particular female, there was no significant difference between the waving and static claw models during the non-reproductive season, but significantly more females (88 %) chose the waving claw during the reproductive season. These results suggest that one function of the waving display of I. pusilla is mate attraction and that waving from a short distance is more effective.