Abstract
Gametogenesis and spawning are described for a population of Macoma balthica (L.) from the Thames Estuary. The primary gonad passes through a male phase, maturation being achieved in the 2nd year of life. Gametogenesis is associated with a system of follicle cells which break down as the gametes approach maturity. The arrangement of follicle cells is characteristic of the sex. In the female, gametocytes are peripheral to the follicle cells; in the male they are interstitial. Spermatogenesis proceeds most rapidly in the center of the follicle, resulting in a gradient of spermatogenic stages of increasing maturity from the periphery to the center.Spawning takes place principally in spring, and to a lesser extent in autumn, during neap tides. Several spawnings were identified in a season, but repeated cycles of gametogenesis were absent.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
