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Reproduction in Mytilus edulis L. (Mollusca: Bivalvia) in Carlingford Lough, Northern Ireland
Wilson, J.H.; Seed, R. (1974). Reproduction in Mytilus edulis L. (Mollusca: Bivalvia) in Carlingford Lough, Northern Ireland. Irish Fish. Investig. Ser. B. 15: 3-30
In: Irish Fisheries Investigations. Series B (Marine). Stationery Office: Dublin. ISSN 0578-7467, more
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Keywords
    Eire
    Population dynamics
    Reproduction
    Mytilus edulis Linnaeus, 1758 [WoRMS]
    Ireland [Marine Regions]
    Marine/Coastal
Authors  Top 
  • Wilson, J.H.
  • Seed, R., more
Abstract
    The reproductive cycles of several Mytilus populations in Carilingford Lonugh were investigated between Nov 1968 and May 1971. The annual cycle varied slightly from population to population though spawning began simultaneously at all stations in the spring months when sea temp was rising rapidly between 7.5° and 12°C. A secondary phase of gametogenesis during the summer months was confirmed by oocyte counts and the onset of the secondary spawning period occurred from 4-8 wk after the initial spring emission. Although no significant differences were recorded in oocyte size in the different populations immediately before spawning oocyte densities were greatest at the seaward stations. Similarly low shore populations had higher oocyte densities than those higher in the littoral zone where feeding time is severely curtailed. Size did not seem to influence gametogenesis nor did the severely polluted conditions prevailing in Belfast Lough. Seasonal changes in glycogen and lipid content of the mantle were studied in relation to the annual reproductive cycle. Primary settlement of early plantigrades on algae occurred principally in summer and winter. Secondary settlement on artificial substrates coincided with the disappearance of early plantigrades from the algae.
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