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7.2.2 Reproductive biology
Sexual dimorphism Sexes are separate in lobsters and usually males are larger than females. In the male, the 5th periopod or walking leg ends in single claws but in the female the tips of these legs are provided with three points formed by spurs used for carrying eggs attched to the under side of the tail. Identification of males and females The males differ by the presence of swollen genital opening at the base of last pair of periopod, whereas in the females it opens at the base of 3rd pair of periopod or walking legs. The female lobsters have two branches of swimming legs whereas the male is having a single branch. The animal has a prolonged breeding periopod and the peak season is October- December under natural condition but it is observed that in confined conditions, it breeds throughout the year in India. Mating and spawning Male lobster deposits spermatophores on the sternum of the female between the last three pairs of appendages. The spermatophores turn black and are called as tar spots. Development of eggs will take 24-72 hrs, during this periopod eggs will develop and remain attached with pleopods of female lobster or oveigerous setae. The female carries the eggs until the hatch out. |
Last modified: Saturday, 24 December 2011, 10:28 AM