Ecological Sentinel
Sandy beach ecology is considered a neglected area of research (Jones et al. 2007). In order to better assess anthropogenic impacts on beach ecosystems, ghost crab burrow density and distribution have been proposed as useful "ecological indicators" (Barros 2001; Noriega 2008; Lucrezi et al. 2008 and 2009; Schlacher et al. 2011). The widespread distribution and abundance of ghost crabs along tropical and sub-tropical beaches and their predictable responses to human impacts makes them good candidates for this role (Lucrezi et al. 2009). |