Crustacean sexual differentiation: a decapod perspective

Abstract

Sexual differentiation in crustaceans is shaped by genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors, with notable interspecies diversity. This review highlights key mechanisms in decapods, including genetic pathways like Doublesex and species-specific variations, such as the Y-linked iDMY gene in spiny lobsters. Male differentiation is driven by the androgenic gland and its insulin-like hormone, while female differentiation involves eyestalk neuropeptides like gonad-inhibiting hormone. Environmental factors, such as density, influence flexible genetic systems. These findings aid aquaculture by enabling sex ratio manipulation and inform conservation through biotechnological advances. Emerging tools like CRISPR promise deeper insights into crustacean sexual differentiation.