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Arthropods, 2026, 15(2): 78-89
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Article

Diversity, distribution and seasonal abundance of mangrove associated brachyuran crabs along the Karachi Coast

Huma Khan1, Farzana Yousuf1, Qadeer Mohmmad Ali2, Quratulan Ahmed2, Farhana S. Ghory2, Ateeqa Baloch2
1Department of Zoology, University of Karachi, Karachi-75270, Pakistan
2The Marine Reference Collection and Resource Centre, University of Karachi, Karachi-75270, Pakistan

Received 4 November 2025;Accepted 20 February 2026;Published online 5 March 2026;Published 1 June 2026
IAEES

Abstract
Crabs are referred as keystone species of mangrove ecosystem and are essential as their burrowing habit promotes bioturbation and organic matter degradation that sustain the health of mangrove forests. The present research is an attempt to review the diversity of crabs in two mangrove areas of Karachi: Sandspit backwater and Korangi-Phitti creek, emphasizing the importance of mangrove ecosystems as habitats for brachyuran crabs and highlights the intricate interplay between seasonal variations and species composition. The sampling was conducted on seasonal basis pre-monsoon (January-February), monsoon (August-September) and post-monsoon (November-December). By documenting 14 species and analyzing upto species level distributions across the Sandspit backwater and Korangi-phitti creek areas, this research provides a comprehensive baseline for future ecological and conservation focused studies in Pakistan's coastal mangroves.

Keywords diversity;distribution;seasonal abundance;mangrove;Brachyuran;Karachi coast.


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