Rare major cheliped abnormalities in the shrimp Alpheus estuariensis (Crustacea: Alpheidae)

Abstract

Malformations or abnormalities in crustaceans have been attributed to somatic mutations, environmental disturbances, injuries, parasitic diseases, somatic mutations, and errors during morphogenetic processes. This study reports a rare specimen of the shrimp Alpheus estuariensis with abnormalities in the major cheliped. A morphological description of the cheliped and a possible scenario that may have led to the abnormalities are provided.