Histological and Biochemical Analyses on Reproductive Cycle of Gomphina melanaegis (Bivalvia; Veneridae)

The seasonal reproductive cycle of Gomphina melanaegis collected in the coastal area of Jumunjin, between April 2006 and March 2007, was analyzed. Maturation cycle parameters such as the gonad index (GI), ovarian egg diameter, frequency of developmental stages, protein content, and RNA/DNA variation in the gonads were analyzed monthly for the 40 samples. According to the indices from histological sections, the frequency of gonad developmental stages, and the oocyte diameter, this clam has a long-term partial spawning pattern from March to October. However, GI and nucleic acid values showed that the mature stage is from March to July and that the main spawning season is August. The peak RNA and DNA contents were good indicators of sexual maturation in females and males, respectively. The variation in protein content corresponded with the RNA/DNA ratios.