Figure 2d
Figure 2d details the hypothesized trophic impacts of
juvenile mitten crabs in freshwater systems. As omnivores,
juvenile mitten crabs consume both terrestrial and
submerged aquatic vegetation, detritivores (worms), insect
larvae, carrion and other small crustaceans (Panning
1938). The freshwater system that feeds into San Francisco
Bay supports a large population of crayfish (Hieb 1997)
whose feeding habits are virtually identical to those of
the mitten crab (Huxley 1880). It can thus be surmised
that the mitten crabs may be engaged in competitive
interactions with crayfish.
amended 6/10/98