“Glandular pockets” of the integument and feeding mechanism inPagurus bernhardus (Crustacea: Anomura)

The benthic anomuran crabPagurus bernhardus (L) were collected from the North Sea near Helgoland, West Germany, during the years 1986–1987. The histological study of the integument ofPagurus bernhardus reveals a double structure with dorsal and ventral cuticular layers and with two epithelial cell layers. Additional structures have been developed within the integument to trap micro food organisms. The structure and function of the cupshaped glandular pockets of the integument is described. The cells which secrete mucus are also described. Histological and histochemical methods have been employed to study the chemical nature of various cells of the integument and the secretions of the glandular pockets. The ecological significance of the sensory hairs, glandular pockets, cuticular layers and the supra-branchial groove is discussed with reference to the crab's feeding mechanism.