Globonautes macropus is a species of crab in the family Potamonautidae, the only species in the genus Globonautes.[2] It is found in Guinea and Liberia and presumably in Sierra Leone, and is listed as an endangered species on the IUCN Red List.[1] It lives in tree hollows filled with water, in closed-canopy rainforest.[1]
| Globonautes macropus | |
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| Genus: | Globonautes Bott, 1959
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| Species: | G. macropus
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| Globonautes macropus (Rathbun, 1898)
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Habitat
editThe tree hole crab, Globonautes macropus, inhabits mature trees in the closed canopy rainforests of West Africa, specifically in Liberia and Guinea. Found at an elevation of 1–2 meters above the ground, the species occupies water-filled holes within these trees. Despite initial assumptions of a broader distribution, recent research suggests a potentially more localized range. The closed canopy environment provides essential shelter and sustenance for the crab. Comprehensive surveys are needed, especially in regions between confirmed subpopulations, to better understand the species' habitat requirements and geographic distribution.[1]
Threats
editHabitat degradation
editThe primary threat to Globonautes macropus stems from the ongoing loss and degradation of its rainforest habitat. Human population increases, deforestation, slash-and-burn agriculture, regional wars, and political instability collectively contribute to the habitat's decline. Mature trees, crucial to the species, are frequently targeted during deforestation for residential construction and clearance for agricultural activities like cassava, plantain trees, and banana cultivation.[1]
Human-induced factors
editThe species faces significant challenges due to human-induced factors, including population growth and associated demands for resources. The expansion of agricultural activities, particularly slash-and-burn practices, further exacerbates the threat. Additionally, regional conflicts and political instability contribute to habitat disruption, posing immediate and long-term risks to the survival of Globonautes macropus.[1]
References
edit- ^ a b c d e f Cumberlidge, N.; Daniels, S. (2020). "Globonautes macropus". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2020: e.T9251A134453236. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2020-3.RLTS.T9251A134453236.en. Retrieved 17 November 2021.
- ^ P. K. L. Ng; D. Guinot & P. J. F. Davie (2008). "Systema Brachyurorum: Part I. An annotated checklist of extant Brachyuran crabs of the world" (PDF). Raffles Bulletin of Zoology. 17: 1–286. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2011-06-06.