Open AccessReproduction, energy storage and metabolic requirements in a mesophotic population of the gorgonian Paramuricea macrospina
Author(s) -
Jordi Grinyó,
Núria Viladrich,
David Díaz,
Anabel Muñoz,
Sandra Mallol,
Janire Salazar,
Raquel Navarro Castillo,
Josep María Gili,
Andrea Gori
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
plos one
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.99
H-Index - 332
ISSN - 1932-6203
DOI - 10.1371/journal.pone.0203308
Subject(s) - gorgonian , biology , reproduction , population , ecology , zoology , mediterranean climate , larva , coral , demography , sociology
This study examined the sexual reproductive cycle, energy storage and metabolic requirements of a Mediterranean gorgonian in a mesophotic ecosystem (~70 m depth). Paramuricea macrospina resulted to be a gonochoric internal brooding species with a 1:1 population sex ratio. Oogenesis lasted ~12–14 months, whereas spermatogenesis was significantly shorter, only lasting 6 months. Fertilization occurred during late summer (August) and larval release occurred during autumn (September–October). The organic matter and total lipid content showed a slight seasonal variability. Stable isotopic composition remained constant throughout the year, reflecting a general stability in gorgonian food sources. Conversely, the free fatty acid composition varied seasonally, reflecting changes in P . macrospina energetic demands probably related to gametogenesis and larval brooding. The reproductive ecology and biochemical composition of P . macrospina significantly differ from shallow coastal gorgonian species, reflecting the higher environmental stability of deeper environments.