Detalle de: Long-term survey on wild and cultured mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis Lmk) reproductive cycles in the Ria de Vigo (NW Spain)

The gonadal development of cultured and wild mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) was studied in several localities of the Ria de Vigo (NW Spain) from December 1987 to June 1993. In the mussel populations examined, a stable reproductive pattern, with minor variations, was found. Gametogenesis takes place in late autumn and early winter. In late winter, gonad follicles are full of ripe gametes and some spawns may occur. However, the peak of the spawning season occurs in spring, coinciding with an increase in temperature in the area. After the first spawns, the gametogenesis begins again, quickly reaching new spawning conditions. Several spawns may occur until early summer. During late summer and autumn, there is a storage of reserves that will be used for the next gametogenesis.