| one publication added to basket [14170] | Spawning, larval development and migration behaviour of Arenicola marina in the laboratory
In: Netherlands Journal of Sea Research. Netherlands Institute for Sea Research (NIOZ): Groningen; Den Burg. ISSN 0077-7579; e-ISSN 1873-1406, more
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| Abstract |
Two laboratory systems are described in which the complete cycle of spawning, larval development, and postlarval migration of Arenicola marina were studied. The investigations show a larval life in which previous observations on the biology can be integrated (Fig. 3). Two spawning periods were observed, the first in September-October, the second at the end of November. Spawning of both sexes takes place in the burrows. Sperm is carried to the surface water by the pumping activity of the male and enters the female's burrow with the water she inhales. Fertilization and development of eggs and early larvae happen in the burrow of the female, which stops her feeding activity for that period. The early larvae (with up to 3 chaetigerous segments), migrate out of the area of the adults, because they are unable to live there. Further larval development occurs in an area without adults. The larvae live in mucus tubes in the upper layer of the sediment or attached to solid substrata. Their food consists of fine detritus particles and they produce faecal pellets. At a length of approximately 6 mm the larvae migration again (post-larval migration; Benham stages). Settlement after postlarval migration takes place in the areas of the adults or in new settlements of only juveniles, and is determined by sediment preference. They live in the same manner as the adults. and produce faecal casts. |
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