Informing Future Stock Assessments and Management of Atlantic Blue Crab in South Carolina Through Increased Resolution of Reproductive Output

The research team will improve stock assessments of Atlantic blue crab through detailed measurements of female reproductive development. This project aims to provide a better understanding of variability in the timing of blue crab egg production by collecting and retaining samples of mature female blue crabs across the estuarine gradient from brackish waters where mating occurs to higher salinity waters where egg brooding occurs. The project will also compare macroscopic and microscopic assessments of ovarian development.