1Department of Zoology, N.E.S. Science College, Sneh Nagar, Nanded, Maharashtra, India
2Department of Zoology, S.G.B. College, Purna Dist. Parbhani, Maharashtra, India
Corresponding Author: Ravi Dhondiraj Barde, Department of Zoology, S.G.B. College, Purna Dist. Parbhani, Maharashtra, India
The present study was conducted to assess the diversity, distribution, and morphometric characteristics of freshwater crabs inhabiting the tributaries of the Godavari River system across Nanded, Hingoli, and Parbhani districts in Maharashtra. Extensive field surveys were carried out between June 2023 and June 2025 in various freshwater habitats, including rivers, tributaries, streams, lakes, farming areas and ponds. Some areas yet to be remain study and surveys. Specimens were collected manually and identified based on their external morphological features. A total of two crab species belonging to the genus Barytelphusa were recorded such as Barytelphusa guerini and Barytelphusa cunicularis. Among them, B. guerini was the most widely distributed, occurring in several tributaries such as the Aasna, Manyad, and Kayadhu rivers, whereas B. cunicularis was restricted to deeper and stable water bodies. Distinct variations in body coloration, size, and chela structure were noted between species. Morphometric analysis showed clear sexual dimorphism, with males exhibiting larger carapace dimensions, heavier body weight, and more robust chelae, while females possessed broader abdomens adapted for egg carrying. The findings highlight the Ecological richness of the Godavari-river basin and the adaptive diversity of its freshwater crab Fauna. Despite moderate anthropogenic pressure, these tributaries continue to support stable crab populations. The data generated in this study serve as a baseline for future ecological monitoring, biodiversity assessment, and conservation planning of freshwater ecosystems in the Marathwada region.
Keywords: Freshwater Crabs, River, Tributaries, Barytelphusa, Nanded and Hingoli Districts.
How to cite this article: Pawde UD, Barde RD. Eco-morphological diversity and distributional patterns of freshwater crabs (Barytelphusa) in the semi-arid Godavari River basin. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(12s): 153-161. DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.12s.16
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None