Abstract

• The present study was conducted in six mangrove areas of Mon State (Bilukyun (Sabelar), Setse, Tarokpi, Kalegauk, Kaudut and Zeephyuthaung) from June 2012 to April 2017. During the study period, a total of 24 species of brachyuran crabs under 4 families (Portunidae, Grapside, Ocypodidae and Dorippidae) were recorded. Among the recorded species, Scylla serrata, Scylla olivacea, Sesarma anderosorii, S. bidens, S. intermedium, Varuna littera, Gelasimus acutus, G. annulipes, G. dessumieri, G. marionis var nitidus, Uca chloropthalmus, Uca hesperiae, and Uca tetragonon were observed at almost all the study areas. Almost all species were collected from Kalegauk and Kaudut mangrove areas representing 24 species and followed by Zeephyuthaung representing 17 species. Scylla serrata, S. olivacea and Metaplax elegans were the most abundance and also collected in every month in all stations. Dorippe dorsipes and Ocypoda sp. were only observed in Kalegauk and Kaudut mangrove areas. Seasonally, the highest species diversity of crabs was observed in hot months and the highest number of individuals of crab species was observed in the wet season.