SETTLEMENT OF BRACHYURAN POSTLARVAE ALONG THE NORTH-CAROLINA COAST

A 3-year study of settlement patterns for three brachyuran crabs (Crus tacea: Decapoda) was conducted in two estuaries along the coast of Nor th Carolina, USA. Postlarvae were collected using surface collectors m ade from ''hog's hair'' filter material. Collectors were checked daily during July-November of 1990-1992. Settlement of Callinectes sapidus, Uca spp. and Panopeus herbstii showed significant yearly variation. C orrelations in abundance with lunar period were observed for C. sapidu s, with greatest numbers collected during the new and full moons, and for Uca spp. with greatest numbers during the waxing and full moon. Nu mbers of P. herbstii showed no correlation with lunar periodicity. Win d direction was related significantly to peak settlement for C. sapidu s. Tidal amplitude (as related to lunar period) appears most important to larvae reentering the estuary, with wind events influencing retent ion and reentry of some, but not all species.