Abstract
The gametogenic cycles of Pholoe minuta (Fabricius, 1780) and Pholoe cf. anoculata Hartman, 1965, are described. Both species retain gametocytes in the gonads until maturity and gametogenesis in the population is well synchronized allowing a restricted breeding season but the size of gametes at maturity, the time of spawning, and the type of larval development differ between the two species. Pholoe minuta produces small eggs (120–150 µm in diameter), spawns in April, and the larvae have a planktotrophic development. Pholoe cf. anoculata produces large, yolky eggs (180–200 µm in diameter) and the sperm are of the aberrant type with long heads. This species spawns in November and the larvae have a direct lecithotrophic development. Recorded differences in the time of spawning of Pholoe minuta from various localities are discussed.
