Growth and
allometry of the larval shell of the Brazilian oyster Crassostrea brasiliana
(Lamarck, 1819) (Bivalvia : Ostreidae)
T.M. Absher, E.M.
Vergara, S.W. Christo-2000
Ophelia, 53 (2) : 105-112 (from Current Contents)
Abstract :
The Brazilian oyster Crassostrea brasiliana (Lamarck,
1819) is a dominant estuarine benthic species of the Parana littoral
(Southern Brazil) and an important economic fisheries resource. In this
paper we describe its larval cycle, from fertilization to metamorphosis, in
controlled conditions of temperature, food and water quality. Growth rates
and allometry of growth were calculated. The larval development is typical
of bivalve species (blastula, gastrula, trochophore, D-veliger, umboveliger,
pediveliger), with fast-growing larvae completing an entire cycle in 30 days
at 25 °C and salinity of 28 ppt. Morphology of the larval shell is
discussed and a description of useful features for identification in
plankton samples is presented.
(Univ Fed Parana, Ctr Estudos Mar, BR-83255000 Pontal
Do Sul, Parana, Brazil)