Reproductive biology of the commercial sea cucumber <i>Parastichopus californicus</i> (Stimpson) (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea). I. Reproductive periodicity and spawning behavior

Abstract

The commercial sea cucumber Parastichopus californicus (Stimpson) has an annual reproductive cycle, with spawning occurring in the late spring through summer within the inland waters of southwestern British Columbia, Canada. The sexes are separate and occur at a 1:1 ratio within the population studied. Ovarian and testicular tubules regenerate and proliferate preceding the spawning season each year. Spawning is partially synchronous and may be mediated by an increase in the intensity and duration of insolation.