Sexual reproduction in the coral Pocillopora verrucosa (Cnidaria: Scleractinia) in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa |
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| Authors: | A Kruger M H Schleyer |
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| Institution: | (1) Oceanographic Research Institute, P.O. Box 10712, Marine Parade 4056, Durban, Republic of South Africa, ZA |
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| Abstract: | The mode of reproduction in Pocillopora verrucosa Ellis and Solander, 1786 varies between geographically isolated regions. This scleractinian coral is common along the KwaZulu-Natal
coast, and its reproductive mode and period of reproduction were assessed using histological preparations. The study was undertaken
from 1992 to 1994 and showed that P. verrucosa is a simultaneous hermaphrodite and broadcast spawner in KwaZulu-Natal. Gametogenesis occurs from October to January, with
the gametes maturing simultaneously so that spawning can be synchronised at new moon in January (mid-summer). Zooxanthellae
are present in the mature oocytes.
Received: 10 September 1997 / Accepted: 6 July 1998 |
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