Certain reproductive characteristics of the freshwater mussel Unio terminalis delicates (Lea, 1863) in G�lba?? Lake, Turkey

The aquaculture potential of Unio terminalis has been considered, but is hindered by a lack of knowledge about the reproductive characteristics that promote yields. The present study describes the seasonal reproductive cycle, gonad structure and sex ratio of the freshwater mussel U. terminalis. A total of 695 individuals were collected in monthly samples from October 2004 to September 2005 in Gölbaşι Lake, Turkey. Calculation of the gonadosomatic index and histological examination of the gonads showed that gametogenesis began in winter, and spawning occurred in summer and early autumn. Five stages of oogenesis and five stages of spermatogenesis were identified. Spermatogenesis followed a pattern similar to that of typical oogenesis. The population consisted of dioecious individuals. Although sex ratios of U. terminalis were not significantly different from the expected 1:1 ratio (P>0.05), slightly female-biased sex ratios were recorded. These results and existing data on mussel meat, phytoplankton production, availability of mussel spat, water quality and growth performance suggest that U. terminalis would be a great source for use in future aquaculture attempts.