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Reproductive capacity of a marine species (Octopus tetricus) within a recent range extension area

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-18, 10:59 authored by Jorge Ramos CastillejosJorge Ramos Castillejos, Gretta PeclGretta Pecl, Jayson SemmensJayson Semmens, Strugnell, JM, Rafael LeonRafael Leon, Moltschaniwskyj, NA
To persist in the face of environmental change, species must adjust to the new conditions or change their geographical distribution, e.g. by range extension. Success for individuals within a zone of range extension requires the new environment to support their capacity to produce viable gametes and survival of the offspring. Reproductive characteristics of the polewards range-shifting Octopus tetricus were examined within the new range off north-eastern Tasmania, Australia, to assess whether it is likely to successfully establish in this extended area of its range. Approximately 44% of captured males and 14% of captured females were mature. Mature females with developing eggs were found throughout the year. Greater numbers of mature females were observed during the austral summer and spring, whereas mature males were observed all year round. Fecundity was high and developing embryos appeared to be viable. Our results suggest that O. tetricus is successfully reproducing beyond its historical range, the reproductive cycle is timed to favourable environmental conditions, and the population has the potential to be self-sustainable. The reproductive biology of O. tetricus may thus facilitate the establishment and prevalence of the population into new environments beyond the known historical distribution.

History

Publication title

Marine and Freshwater Research

Volume

66

Issue

11

Pagination

999-1008

ISSN

1323-1650

Department/School

Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies

Publisher

CSIRO Publishing

Place of publication

150 Oxford St, Po Box 1139, Collingwood, Australia, Victoria, 3066

Rights statement

Copyright 2015 CSIRO

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Wild caught edible molluscs

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    University Of Tasmania

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