Preliminary observations on parental care in Sphaeroma terebrans Bate 1866 (Isopoda Sphaeromatidae), a mangrove wood borer from Kenya

Abstract

In November 1991 numerous specimens of the wood-boring isopod Sphaeroma terebrans were collected from mangrove forests along the coast of Kenya. The presence of burrows occupied by an adult female or by a couple and several young (1 to 26) was noted. The frequency of these “family burrows” is scarce, only 5% of all inhabited burrows. The dimensions of males and females in the “family burrows” are larger than those living alone. In some of the “family burrows” a mixed brood was present.

Activity is very scarce and difficult to observe in nature. A few observations were conducted in a “field” laboratory. When the burrows are exposed at low tide, activity stops and the young gather at the bottom while an adult obstructs the entrance with its pleotelson. When the roots are covered by water, some adults can be seen digging and filter-feeding. Some behaviours of young and adults are described.

KEY WORDS:

• parental care
• Isopoda
• Sphaeromatidae
• Sphaeroma terebrans
• Kenya