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Abstract
The spawns of 28 species in Nassariinae and Dorsaninae are described, and 26 are illustrated. Unconsolidated or simply constructed egg masses are the rule. Only five species have closely spaced capsules with overlapping ridges and spines forming a protective barrier against predators. As inhabitants of soft substrata, nassarids reproduce successfully when they are able to place egg capsules on stable objects projecting above unconsolidated sediment. Consequences of selection relative to this requirement could be the frequently reported occurrences of ovoviviparity or brooding on or in various parts of the spawner's body.
Egg capsules of non-brooding species in both subfamilies are simply constructed and have comparable morphologies as indicated by an escape aperture and the positions oflateral ridges containing sutures. Four general categories are identified: (a) bulliform capsules with sutures and an aperture, (b) capsules with simple lateral ridges (containing sutures) and a terminal or subterminal aperture, (c) capsules with complex lateral ridges and a terminal or subterminal aperture; and (d) capsules v:ith simple lateral ridges and no visible aperture. Specialized capsules used for brooding occur, of which most resemble the type without a visible aperture.
Although capsular morphology, placement, and dimensions can be used as evidence that nassands produce species-specific egg capsules, these criteria are insufficient for all. Three categories include frequent examples of spawns lacking specificity. Nassarids can deposit different capsular shapes at disparate localities in a range or build an egg mass containing capsules of two different shapes, behaviors that further complicate attempts to determine if morphologies of the egg envelopes are unique to species.
