Reproductive cycle and size-dependent spawning of female spiny lobsters (Panulirus japonicus) off Oshima Island, Tokyo, Japan

Abstract

Reproductive biology of the spiny lobster Panulirus japonicus was histologically examined by monthly sampling between March 1993 and September 1994 at Oshima Island, near Tokyo. P. japonicus had a well defined reproductive cycle. Yolk accumulation became manifest in February and ovaries grew rapidly in March. Females spawned from late April to mid August and were ovigerous to mid September. Of large females with a carapace length (CL) of ≥47 mm, 93% were estimated to spawn twice during the spawning season. Size at which 50% of females reached sexual maturity was estimated to be 41.8 mm CL, as calculated from a logistic model. Some individuals considered to be primiparous showed delayed vitellogenesis and were estimated to spawn only once during the season.