Diatom grazing by Aegla uruguayana (Decapoda: Anomura: Aeglidae):: digestibility and cell viability after gut passage

The aim of this study was to analyse the digestibility and viability of diatoms following out passage through Aegla urilguayana. Crabs (n=28) and diatom samples were collected from Las Pencas Stream (Entre Rios Province. Argentina). Organisms were allowed to graze on the source, then they were placed in aquaria to defecate. Samples of faecal and Source material were analysed microscopically to quantify 'live', 'dying' and 'dead' diatoms. and inoculated onto Chu 10-infused agar cultures to observe cell viability. Significant differences were found among Source and faeces content of 'live' and 'dead' cells (p < 0.01). Nevertheless, the percentage of digestion after out passage was only 11.5%. Both agar Cultures produced colonies that increased in cell density over time with significantly higher enhancement in faecal treatment (p < 0.05). Evidence of digestion resistance and reproductive stimulation by gut passage could be tested in this experience.