On the presence of Charybdis (Charybdis) hellerii (A. Milne-Edwards, 1867) on the Mexican coast of the Gulf of Mexico

Abstract

This is the first report of Charybdis (Charybdis) hellerii (A. Milne-Edwards, 1867) on the Mexican coast of the Gulf of Mexico. Six specimens were collected with crab traps in Sisal, Yucatan, and one in Bahamita on the marine coast of the Laguna de Términos in Campeche, Mexico, with a seabob trawl net. Further sampling and monitoring are required to find conclusive evidence that the species is established in this area. The appearance of this species is a concern due to the potential impact it could have on the populations of other native species of crabs of economic importance.