The reproductive cycle of the intertidal gastropod Turbo coronatus Gnlelin 1791, on the Transkei coast

Abstract

Histological methods were used to determine the reproductive cycle of Turbo coronatus. Ovarian development was assessed from the relative proportions of mature and immature oocytes in sectioned material. Testicular tissues were subjectively given a maturity index based on the relative proportions of the various spermatogenic cells present. Turbo coronatus has a protracted breeding period with peak spawning taking place from December to February.