Reproduction and development of Ecteinascidia turbinata (Ascideacea : Perophoridae) in Cuba

The reproduction of Ecteinascidia turbinata was studied in Punta del Este, Isla de la Juventud, Cuba. Gonadal development of 4 606 zooids from 30 colo nies was studied in six localities by monthly samples from June 1994 throug h May 1995. In addition, from August to November 1997, the regenerating cap acity of the colonies was assessed. Number and diameter of oocytes, embryos and larvae were measured in 21 zooids (17-23 mm long). Five stages of gona d development are described: juvenile, immature, mature, in larval release and in reabsorption. The zooids reach 27 mm in length. Immature zooids may exceed 60 % of the total population throughout the year and prevail in most length classes. Minimum size for mature zooids was 6.7 mm, but more than 5 0 % of mature and at larval release zooids measured 19-20 mm. Sexual reprod uction occurs from September through July with a peak in April-May. Asexual reproduction occurs year-round, but more intensely during the summer, espe cially in August After the spawning and reabsorption of all zooids in a col ony, the following cycles of generation-degeneration of the colony repeat a pproximately every 40 days.