Can you feminise a crustacean?

Area of Science:

• Environmental Toxicology
• Endocrinology
• Crustacean Biology

Background:

• Anthropogenic chemicals can cause reproductive disorders, with endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) primarily studied in vertebrates.
• Research on EDCs in invertebrates, particularly crustaceans, is increasing, but often focuses on female or growth endpoints.
• Existing studies frequently use vertebrate hormone mimics, potentially overlooking unique crustacean endocrine mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate the current research approaches for endocrine disruption in crustaceans.
• To propose a revised strategy for investigating sexual endocrine disruption in crustaceans based on their unique biology.
• To highlight the importance of understanding crustacean sex determination and male reproductive development.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and critical analysis of existing studies on EDCs in crustaceans.
• Comparative analysis of endocrine disruption mechanisms in vertebrates and crustaceans.
• Theoretical argumentation based on crustacean reproductive biology and endocrine system function.

Main Results:

• Current research paradigms, focused on feminization, may be misaligned with crustacean endocrine systems.
• It is more challenging to feminize crustaceans than to de-masculinize them.
• Intersexuality in crustaceans can result from masculinization of WZ females or de-masculinization of males via androgenic gland dysfunction.

Conclusions:

• Future research should prioritize understanding crustacean sex determination mechanisms.
• Investigating the molecular, biochemical, and physiological expression of male secondary sexual characteristics is crucial.
• A shift in focus towards male-centric endpoints and mechanisms is necessary for accurate assessment of sexual endocrine disruption in crustaceans.