Demography and gametogenic cycle of Paradoneis armata Glémarec (Polychaeta, Paraonidae) in Ría de La Coruña, North-West Spain

Abstract

A survey of the benthic macro fauna in Ría de La Coruña, North-west Spain, showed the infaunal paraonid polychaete Paradoneis armata Glémarec to be common at a number of stations. A monthly sampling programme was undertaken to collect samples at the station where this small polychaete was most abundant. This time series was analysed to give information on density, population structure and gametogenic cycle. Densities were high throughout the study period with a maximum of 8618 ind. · m-2. The population was characterized by a single mode with little evidence of recruitment. P. armata is dioecious and spawning occurred in June. Secondary sexual features, i.e. enlarged eyes and natatory chaeta, were noted.