Identification and integrated analysis of microRNA and mRNA transcripts during agonistic behavior in Eriocheir sinensis using Illumina technology

As a commercially important species, the Chinese mitten crab (E. sinensis) has been cultured for a long time in China. Agonistic behavior is a common phenomenon in crustaceans and usually decreases the crabs’ integrity, survival and growth. In our previous studies, we reported the agonistic behavior of E. sinensis and further investigated the regulation of 5-HT and DA in agonistic behavior through the cAMP signaling pathway (under review). However, the mechanism underlying agonistic behavior in E. sinensis is unclear, and researching investigating this topic is lacking. An understanding of the regulation mechanisms underlying the switching of agonistic behavior is essential for elucidating the behavioral plasticity of animals and ultimately decreasing the occurrence of agonistic behavior.