The breeding and development of the ascidian Pelonaia corrugata Forbes and Goodsir

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Abstract
Summary: Pelonaia corrugata in the Firth of Clyde breeds for only 2–4 weeks in January or February. The species is oviparous. Early cleavage is similar to that of other ascidians, but after gastrulation the embryo passes through a two-hemisphere stage. One of these hemispheres is endodermal. From the other hemisphere, which slowly envelops the endoderm, two ampullae grow and fix the embryo to the substratum. The young ascidian develops directly from this attached embryo, and the development is therefore anural. Elimination of the pelagic larval stage is regarded as an adaptation to the sand-dwelling habit of the adult, as it prevents dispersal to unsuitable habitats.

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