Embryology of decapod crustaceans III : Embryonic development of Eurypanopeus canalensis Abele & Kim, 1989, and Panopeus chilensis H. Milne Edwards & Lucas, 1844 (Decapoda, Brachyura, Panopeidae)

Embryonic development in two coastal lagoon crabs, Eurypanopeus canalensis and Panopeus chilensis. is described. Embryos were sampled and illustrated at intervals of 48 hours. The complete embryonic development at 26-28 degrees C was similar (13 +/- 1 day) for both species. Growth was synchronous and appendages were formed during the same periods for the two species. Differences were observed in eye size and cephal othorax-abdomen proportions. The egg-volume increased significantly, three differences statistically in volume were detected for E. canalensis and two for P. chilensis, especially at the two last stages of development.