Some preliminary observations on the burrows ofCallianassa subterranea(Montagu) (Decapoda: Thalassinidea) from the west coast of Scotland

Burrow structure of the thalassinid decapod Callianassa subterranea is described from polyester resin casts taken in situ. The characteristic burrow form consists of a deep vertical shaft which extends from the sediment surface to a lattice of subsurface galleries. Often the surface opening is at the centre of a cone of ejected sediment. Information on burrow density is given and this suggests that the species is much commoner in British waters than is apparent from current fauna lists.