A STUDY OF THE REPRODUCTIVE ORGANS OF THE COMMON MARINE SHRIMP, PENAEUS SETIFERUS (LINNAEUS)

Abstract

The male and female gonads of P. setiferus were examined macroscopically and microscopically at different stages of development. Observations are recorded on the general anatomy and histology of the ovary, oviduct, testis, vas deferens and terminal ampoule. Gross changes in size and coloration of the ovary are correlated with stages in the development of the ova. The nature and function of accessory sex structures (thelycum, petasma and the spermatophore) are descr. Observations are included on the processes of impregnation and ovulation. Evidence is given indicating that a female may spawn more than once in a single breeding season. Unsuccessful efforts were made to find clues which would serve as an index to the age of a shrimp.