Reproduction of the invasive fan worm Branchiomma bairdi (Polychaeta: Sabellidae)

Abstract

The fan worm Branchiomma bairdi has been introduced to the Gulf of California from its original distribution in the Caribbean Sea, and is now a conspicuous component of most benthic communities. Study of reproductive features is essential to understand the dispersion capability of B. bairdi and its invasive potential. Sampling was carried out monthly in the port of Mazatlán during 2009 (23°12′13′′N, 106°24′31.4′′W). Abundance and biomass were measured. Sex and maturity were determined. Gametogenesis and observations on the spawning, fertilization, larval development and brooding are presented. The highest values of abundance (>2500 worms m⁻²) and biomass (175 g m⁻²) occurred during August and September. Mature simultaneous hermaphrodite worms were found continuously throughout the annual cycle as well as asexual forms. In B. bairdi gametogenesis is extra-ovarian. Three posterior thoracic segments and all abdominal segments are involved in the production of gametes. Sperm are ect-aquasperm type (free spawners with external fertilization). Spermatids are grouped in tetrads. Ovules are retained for intra-tubular fertilization. Larval development is lecithotrophic. Embryos are brooded on the collar and branchial crown.

Keywords:

• Hermaphroditism
• oogenesis
• parental care
• sabellids
• scissiparity

Published in collaboration with the University of Bergen and the Institute of Marine Research, Norway, and the Marine Biological Laboratory, University of Copenhagen, Denmark

Published in collaboration with the University of Bergen and the Institute of Marine Research, Norway, and the Marine Biological Laboratory, University of Copenhagen, Denmark

Acknowledgements

Sergio Rendón (UNAM-ICML) helped us in collecting material. Lenka Nealova (BMNH) reviewed the English. This work was supported by the Dirección General de Asuntos del Personal Académico, UNAM, through a postdoctoral fellowship for the first author and supported by the CONABIO grant GN002. Facilities provided by Nuria Méndez (UNAM-ICML) were greatly appreciated. The comments of two anonymous reviewers improved the manuscript and were greatly appreciated.

Notes

Published in collaboration with the University of Bergen and the Institute of Marine Research, Norway, and the Marine Biological Laboratory, University of Copenhagen, Denmark