sexual reproduction in zoanthids?

[Mark Dunlap]

We all see asexual (budding) reproduction in our zoas but what about sexual reproduction? From an evolutionary perspective it would seem logical that it does at least sporadically occur. Anyone observe it? Any ideas on how to induce it?

 

[shrimped]

I think a lot of it has to do with lunar cycle. Zoa spawning has happened before in the aquarium hobby but i’m pretty sure it was accidental. Here’s a paper from James Reimer about zoa spawning in the wild. miseryukyu.com/MISE@University_of_the_Ryukyus/Publication_List_files/Onoetal2005ZS.pdf

 

[Mark Dunlap]

link comes up as an email address?

 

[shrimped]

link comes up as an email address?

sorry i’m not sure why it came up as email. copy and paste this link on your browser search bar.

miseryukyu.com/MISE@University_of_the_Ryukyus/Publication_List_files/Onoetal2005ZS.pdf

 

[Mark Dunlap]

Thank you!
A very interesting paper. I wonder why they divide so fast in our tanks but are either not spawning or at least not being observed to spawn.