MECHANISMS OF COORDINATION BETWEEN MOULTING AND REPRODUCTION IN TERRESTRIAL ISOPOD CRUSTACEA

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Abstract
In terrestrial isopods, different sensory cues are required to initiate reproduction and molting, indicating that the 2 processes are controlled by different physiological mechanisms. A specific sensory trigger which initiates premolt is identified for the 1st time in any crustacean; it occurs well before any conventional signs of premolt become evident. Specific coordinating mechanisms adjust the chronology of molting and vitellogenesis under conditions promoting both processes. The 1st phase of vitellogenesis can occur either in intermolt or early premolt according to conditions and is independent of ecdysone. The 2nd phase invariably occurs in late premolt and may be ecdyson-dependent. The relations between molting and reproduction cannot be satisfactorily described in terms of synergism or antagonism. They are separately controlled processes which interact via specific cues which coordinate and adjust the timing of the 2 processes. Implications of this concept are discussed.

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