A Method for Ripening Haematoxylin Solutions Rapidly

Abstract

Serial sections of the gonads of more than 200 oysters of approximately known ages show that this species is regularly protandric, with a rhythm of alternating [female] and [male] phases following the initial [male] phase. At least 3 phases may be completed in one year. Transitional intersexual stages are present in some parts of the reproductive system at all, or nearly all, times. All individuals when not associated with older, sexually mature animals show an identical sequence in this sexual rhythm, although there is considerable variation in the relative proportion of [male] and [female] elements present. Hence it may be assumed that all zygotes are alike as regards their primary sexual heredity, and that the rhythmical sequence of sexual phases is dependent upon associated factors comparable with those which control so many of the physiological and physical characteristics of other animals. Whether, as in some other mollusks, these associated factors can be modified by environmental conditions such as nutrition or the close association of young animals with older, sexually mature individuals, further experiments may determine.