1. How does ultraviolet radiation (UVR) affect
the behaviour of Carcinus maenas?
Moreton. D
Marine Biology & Coastal Ecology, University of Plymouth.PL48AA
Abstract
Ultraviolet radiation (UVR, 290 - 400nm) has long been documented to be increasing in
magnitude at a significant rate due to global climate change. The damaging effects of UVR
are more prominent to species living in shallow water habitats than mid to deep water
environments due to factors affecting UVR’s attenuation. Carcinus maenas is one such
species with a well-documented background; however, studies on its reaction to UVR are
relatively unexplored. 20 specimens were analysed under varying UVR intensities with their
exposure times and behaviours recorded. Results indicated that C. maenas exhibited a strong
behavioural and exposure response to increasing intensity of UVR. Specimen’s exposure time
increased significantly and all behaviours exhibited some form of response with amplified
intensity. Studies into exposure responses and tolerance levels have been found to uncommon
and under-researched as suggested by the scientific community. Increased C. maenas activity
brought on by UVR may cause ecological shifts within the intertidal, leading to altered
species distribution and food web structure. The implication of which could result in sub-
sequential changes to coastal diversity and composition.
Keywords: Crab, climate change, foraging, exposure, intensity, UVB, response, shifts