| Main Ref. | Shean, R., 2011 |
| Mode | protandry |
| Fertilization | external |
| Spawning Frequency | variable throughout range |
| Batch Spawner | No |
| Reproductive Guild |
nonguarders Open water/substratum egg scatterers |
| Description of life cycle and mating behavior | Broadcast spawners. Life cycle: Embryos develop into free-swimming trocophore larvae, succeeded by the bivalve veliger (with ciliated vellum to assist mobility and feeding), resembling a miniature clam. After 2-4 weeks, it develops into a peliveliger with a formed foot to assist further with swimming, as well as byssal threads to help the clam secure itself onto the seafloor once it finds a suitable substrate to settle on. Burrowing into the ground allows the animal to find food and be protected from predators. Once settled, it will stay in the substrate and continue to grow into a mature clam. |
| Search for more references on reproduction | Scirus |