The reproduction and larval development of Nereis diversicolor O. F. Müller

Abstract

An account is given of the reproduction and development of the larva of N. diversicolor O. F. Miiller.In any one population the number of males was found not to exceed 10 %.The species is dioecious. Both sexes become green at maturity, but may be distinguished externally.Ripe oocytes, which vary between 200 and 250μ in diameter mature in a loose coelomic parenchyma, and are released by rupture of the body wall after its partial histolysis. Sperm is released through the nephridia, or possibly by rupture of the body wall as well. In the male histolysis occurs, but the coelomic parenchyma is transitory. Sperm matures in the form of coelomic sperm plates.