Comparison of spawning induction techniques on Paracentrotus lividus (Echinodermata: Echinoidea) broodstock

Abstract

The performance of different and expedite spawning induction methods was compared on samples of both mature wild and captive Paracentrotus lividus sea urchin populations. Thermal, saline and mechanical shocks, emersion during different periods of time, addition of con-specific gametes and different KCl concentrations were tested. Percentage of spawned sea urchins, mean number of released eggs, percentage of males that released more than 200 million spermatozoa, and survival after 5 days were the variables analysed. Results indicate that both thermal and saline shocks were ineffective methods to trigger spawning. Mechanical shock and addition of con-specific gametes were able to promote spawning but with a reduced number of released gametes. Emersion for a period of 3 h induced spawning with 100% broodstock survival but longer periods up to 12 h, although increasing the number of spawners can cause significant broodstock mortality. An injection of 1-mL intra-peristomial KCl was an expedite method to obtain P. lividus gametes, but high mortalities were always recorded and was related with excessive KCl concentrations. When there is need for a small number of gametes, the mechanical shock technique can be considered since led to 100% survival. When large spawnings are required, the emersion procedure can be a viable method, but further investigation must be carried out to assess the best time period to obtain broodstock full survival.