Catch per pot has been used as an index of abundance during stock assessment
studies of crustaceans, but it is greatly affected by many variables (Miller, 1990). Pot design
and soaking time are known to influence the pot's capture efficiency because of the different
physical parameters of the pot, such as volume, entrance type and number, or mesh size; and
because the conditions in the pot change over time. As time elapses, the bait loses its
attractiveness, and because of the growing presence of crabs inside the pot intimidating
others trying to get in, the pot may become saturated. At this time, depending on retention
characteristics of the pot, escape may play an important role (Zhou and Shirley, 1997a).