Abstract
The gametogenic cycles of Nephtys hombergii Audouin et M. Edw. and N. caeca Fabricius are described. Both species are polytelic (=discrete, iteroparous) and breed in their second and subsequent years. They spawn in May in the Tyne estuary. After spawning, N. hombergii retains a large number of gametocytes, which are ultimately resorbed. A new generation of gametocytes is proliferated by September and mature gametes accumulate during the winter months. Gametic development is not well synchronised.
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Communicated by J.H.S. Blaxter, Oban
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Olive, P.J.W. Reproduction and annual gametogenic cycle in Nephtys hombergii and N. caeca (Polychaeta: Nephtyidae). Mar. Biol. 46, 83–90 (1978). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00393823
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00393823