Lunar Periodicity of Reproduction in the Planktonic Foraminifer Hastigerina pelagica
1979; Inter-Research; Volume: 1; Linguagem: Inglês
10.3354/meps001061
ISSN1616-1599
AutoresMichael Spindler, C Hernleben, U. Bayer, Awh. Be, OR Anderson,
Tópico(s)Planetary Science and Exploration
ResumoLunar periodicity in the reproductive cycle of a protozoan is reported for the flrst time.Hastigerina pelagica (d'orbigny) releases gametes in a rhythmic cycle.Gametogenesis generally takes place 3 to 7 days after full moon, exhibiting a synodic moon cycle.Field observations suggest that in the open ocean almost all individuals may undergo garnetogenesis at the same time.Reproduction in the laboratory is synchronous with that in the natural environment Cultures were maintained in a controlled-climate room with a 12 h light/ l 2 h dark cycle at habitat temperatures.Laboratol-y condit~ons, however, may disrupt the timing of the reproductive cycle since the number of individuals actually releasing gametes In the laboratory depends on the collect~ng date.The closer to the time of reproduction the protozoans are collected, the more individuals will release gametes Individuals collected 1 3 or more days before full moon, very seldom reproduce.
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