Reproductive cycle of the mangrove oyster, Crassostrea gasar (Adanson, 1757), in tropical and temperate climates

The reproductive cycle of Crassostrea gasar oysters from a single origin (Federal University of Santa Catarina hatchery) was studied by culturing the species for 1 year in four distinct areas of Brazil; two of which were in tropical climates (02 degrees 44 ' S, 41 degrees 58 ' W; 02 degrees 47 ' S, 41 degrees 55 ' W) and two in temperate climates (26 degrees 28 ' S, 48 degrees 50 ' W; 27 degrees 35 ' S, 48 degrees 32 ' W). In each area, 20 individuals were collected each month for reproductive cycle analysis using standard histological techniques. Oysters cultivated in tropical climates demonstrated intermittent reproductive cycles, with individuals spawning throughout the year and rarely entering a resting stage. Oysters cultivated in temperate climates demonstrated spawning periods associated with increases in water temperatures, occurring in late spring and summer. Resting stages were clearly seen in samples from latitudes of 26 and 27 degrees S, with approximately 75% to 100% of the individuals in this stage between May and July.

Automated summary

The study found that oysters cultivated in tropical climates exhibited intermittent reproductive cycles, with individuals spawning throughout the year and rarely entering a resting stage; while oysters cultivated in temperate climates spawned during late spring and summer with resting stages observed in samples from latitudes of 26 and 27 degrees S between May and July.