Crypsis in sandhoppers

Abstract

To estimate the matching between the backs of adult Talitrus saltator and the sand from their home beaches, reflectance, and patch shape and size were measured. Results show that in general there is a good matching between sandhopper back patterns and the local sand. Captivity caused a significant difference in the degree of similarity between the animals’ patterns and the sand. In spite of the good level of crypsis, some behavioural data suggest that it is not sufficient to protect the sandhoppers from predation (e.g., by shore birds and shallow water fishes).

Key words:

• Amphipoda
• Sandhoppers
• Talitrus saltator
• Crypsis