Seasonal abundance and distribution of the blue crab, Callinectes sapidus Rathbun, in the discharge area of the P.H. Robinson Generating Station, Galveston Bay, Texas.

Abstract

Seasonal abundance and distributive patterns of the blue crab, C. sapidus were determined in an area of Galveston Bay (Texas, USA) influenced by a hot- water discharge from the P.H. Robinson Generating Station. Temperature, conductivity, dissolved 02 levels and biological samples of the blue crab were collected once each month, Jan. 1968 -Dec. 1969, at 11 offshore (trawl) and 6 beach (seine) stations. The blue crab was more abundant at the mouth of the discharge canal than in other areas during most months of each year. Factors attracting blue crabs to the mouth of the discharge canal included a constant food supply of entrained organisms and favorable water temperatures during most months. During hot months they probably avoided the hottest water except for feeding. Based on abundance and distributive patterns, the discharge from the P.H. Robinson Generating Station had no detrimental effects on this species.