Comparative gametogenesis of Spisula solidissima solidissima and Spisula solidissima similis cultured in coastal Georgia

摘要

The reproductive cycles of 2 subspecies of surf clams, Spisula solidissima solidissima and Spisula solidissima similis, cultured under similar nursery and field conditions were examined. Monthly gonadal examination showed that S. s. similis initiated gametogenesis, achieved mature status and spawned earlier than S. s. solidissima. S. s. similis spawned from January to June; S. s. solidissima spawned in May. Equal numbers of male and female S. s. similis were recorded; significantly more male than female (1.00 male:0.32 female) S. s. solidissima were observed. The implications for the development of surf clams for aquaculture are discussed.