Reproduction cycle of striped venus Chamelea gallina from the Black Sea coast of Turkey

Abstract

The gametogenetic cycle of striped venus Chamelea gallina of southern Black Sea population was studied using standard histological technique and a condition index. There was a synchronism between sexes in terms of gametogenetic development. The beginning phase occurs during spring (March-May) and maturation occurs during Summer (June). Most of the spacemen spawn in July. The gonadal stages were consisted of five phases including primordial, development, mature, spawn and resting. Results obtained in this study fit with seasonal restrictions of C. gallina fishery in the Black Sea. © Medwell Journals, 2009.