Some relationships between the process of pair formation and gamete maturation inHarmothoë imbricata(L) (Annelida: Polychaeta)

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Abstract
Male and female Harmothoë imbricata form pairs in preparation for spawning although the individuals are normally mutually antagonistic. This change in behaviour is due to a reduction in aggression shown by the females as they approach maturity. Immature males attempt to mount but are normally repulsed by the aggressive immature females. No obvious behavioural change occurs during the period of final gamete maturation in the male. Pair formation results in the paired female spawning sooner than would an equivalent female kept in isolation. Release of sperm over the newly formed egg mass is ensured by receptors on the ventral cirri which inform the male that the female has spawned.