Reproductive timing by the polychaetes Clymenella torquata and Praxillella praetermissa in Passamaquoddy Bay, New Brunswick

Abstract

Two species of polychaete, Clymenella torquata and Praxillella praetermissa, are able to maintain sufficient numerical stability to be a regular food item of fish in Passamaquoddy Bay, New Brunswick. Each species is living near an extreme of its distribution in Passamaquoddy Bay and this has necessitated adaptations in habitat and in reproductive biology. Clymenella spawn at the same temperature as do populations to the south but later in the summer. Praxillella, an Arctic species, spawns during winter.