Population structure and reproductive biology of Ceratonereis limnetica (Polychaeta: Nereididae) at Lower Portland, Hawkesbury River, Australia

Publication Type:Journal Article
Year of Publication:1986
Authors:C. J. Glasby
Journal:Marine Biology
Volume:90
Pagination:589-595
Keywords:CRIMP POLYCHAETES
Abstract:

Ceratonereis limnetica Hutchings and Glasby was collected from Lower Portland, Hawkesbury River, New South Wales, Australia, from March 1982 to September 1983. C. limnetica is one of a relatively few polychaete species in which the adults normally tolerate riverine conditions. Reproduction in this species has been modified accordingly, differing from the common pelagic spawning of many nereidids. Adults of both sexes remain essentially unmodified and spawn on the bottom. Embryos and larvae are brooded in specially constructed tubes in the sediment by the female. Both sexes have a life span of about 1 yr, dying soon after spawning. The morphological and reproductive behavioural similarities between C. limnetica and C. aequisetis are considered to indicate a close phylogenetic affinity.

Scratchpads developed and conceived by (alphabetical): Ed Baker, Katherine Bouton Alice Heaton Dimitris Koureas, Laurence Livermore, Dave Roberts, Simon Rycroft, Ben Scott, Vince Smith