Document Type
Article
Department/Program
Virginia Institute of Marine Science
Publication Date
1970
Journal
Proceedings of the National Shellfisheries Association
Volume
60
First Page
86
Last Page
94
Abstract
Brachidontes recurvus larvae were reared from eggs in the laboratory. Larval length increased from 90-220 μ, during shelled stages with straight-hinge stage from 90-165 μ,, umbo stage from 135-220 μ,, and pediveliger stage from 165-220 μ,. Height was 23 ± 10 μ. less than length. Depth was 54 + 15 μ, less than length. The hinge line increased with growth and ranged from 68-84 μ,- Hinge structure consisted of small taxodont hinge teeth over the entire hinge line with teeth becoming larger at both ends. Larvae are typical D-shaped mytilid larvae during straight hinge stages but develop a conspicuous, broadly rounded umbo and steeply sloping shoulders. Ends are blunt and the ventral margin flattened. The eyespot appears at a length of about 165 μ.
Larvae are more likely to be confused with larvae of Modiolus demissus than those of other bivalves.
Publication Statement
Contribution (Virginia Institute of Marine Science) no.336.
Recommended Citation
Chanley, Paul, Larval development of the hooked mussel, Brachidontes recurvus Rafinesque (Bivalvia: Mytilidae) including a literature review of the larval characteristcs of the Mytilidae (1970). Proceedings of the National Shellfisheries Association, 60, 86-94.
https://scholarworks.wm.edu/vimsarticles/2117
