Observations of gametogenesis in the deep-sea asteroids Paragonaster subtilis and Pseudarchaster parelii (Phanerozonia: Goniasteridae)

Abstract

Examination of the gametogenic cycle of the deep-sea Goniasterid starfish Paragonaster subtilis and Pseudarchaster parelii suggests that accessory cell activity takes place in a meshwork surrounding the developing oocyte. This meshwork develops as vitellogenesis proceeds and reaches a maximum thickness of 150 μm. Accessory cell activity is distinctly different from that observed in deep-sea Astropectinid and Benthopectinid starfish, suggesting parallel evolution in these phanerozoan asteroids.