Life history characteristics and burrow structure of the mud shrimp (Decapoda: Upogebiidae)

Abstract

Burrow-dwelling shrimps, formerly known as “thalassinids,” are attracting the attention of researchers as ecosystem engineers. This review focuses on the ecology of upogebiid shrimps worldwide, especially their life history and burrow traits. The mud shrimp has a larval period consisting of three to four zoeal stages with one decapodid stage. The time required for maturity and longevity has been estimated to be 1–3 years and 3–5 years, respectively. However, data on shrimp lifespan may be updated with the development and application of age determination methodologies. The structure of the shrimp burrow is mainly U- or Y-shaped and is similar among species but with some interspecific differences. Mud shrimps are filter feeders due to the ventilation activity in the U-shaped structure, and inhabit burrows with an inner diameter that fits their body. Burrow connections were recorded between burrows of males and females. Some juvenile mud shrimps may branch off from adult burrows to create their own burrows. This review discusses the response of shrimp populations in areas affected by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. Owing to long maturation times, the recovery of these populations was slow in habitats affected by tsunamis. These results highlight the future effects of climate change on shrimp populations.