Collecting and processing freshwater shrimps and crabs

Abstract

There are over 650 and 1300 species of freshwater shrimps and crabs, respectively. These taxa are found in the tropics and subtropics, including unusual habitats such as anchialine and limestone caves, phytotelmata, and riverine cliffs. Various techniques are used for collecting freshwater decapods: a multitude of hand-catching methods, snorkeling and scuba, traps (submerged, terrestrial, and pitfall), building surrogate habitats, as well as using different kinds of nets, hook and line, chemicals, and electricity. Also discussed are the use of native collectors, night collecting, and several special methods for preserving various taxa.