Journal of the Marine Biological Association of India

Observations on the maturity, breeding and development of Scoliodon laticaudus Muller and Henle off Calicut Coast.

Volume 21 Issue 1&2

P. Devadoss

Abstract

In Scoliodon laticaudus both right and left ovaries are functional. The eggs are minute, measuring around 1 mm in diameter and have negligible yolk content. The embryos develop early contact with the mother by means of yolk sac placenta for nutrition. Separate compartments are provided for each developing embryo in the uterus. As many as 20 embryos, 10 in each uterus are noticed in a mother. The number of embryos normally varies from 6-18. They are ready for parturition when they reach about 14 cm. Males mature at 30.1-35.0 cm and females at 35.1-40.0 cm size group. Size at first maturity is further determined by calculating the average 'K' value as well as by relating to the percentage of liver weight to body weight. Gestation period is estimated to be 5-6 months.

Date : 31-12-1979