Growth, reproduction and life span of Sepia officinalis (Cephalopoda: Mollusca) cultured through seven consecutive generations

• DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7998.1994.tb08582.x
• Publication Date: 2012-10-12T11:37:48Z
• Authors: J. W. Forsythe; R. H. DeRusha; R. T. Hanlon
• Keywords: Cuttlefish; Hatchling; Sexual maturity; Sepia; Life span; Drosophila subobscura; Cephalopod

Hundreds of Sepia officinalis were hatched and cultured through the life cycle in each 13 populations. Two genetic lines maintained: one for an unprecedented seven generations another presently its fourth. All generations—save one—produced animals excess 1·0 kg body weight. Seven eight with adequate data records had mean weights 1–2 kg, largest cuttlefish reared a male 2·6 female 2·9 kg. Fecundity levels high, but there was trend towards decreased fertility later generations, fertilization rates dropping below 10%. In 7th generation, most mature failed to engage agonistic courtship mating behaviour. Almost no normal eggs laid none fertile, thus ending lineage. Most culture took place at 20–24°C temperature generally explained variations span duration: being shorter length higher temperatures. Life spans consistently longer 20°C sizes greater than predicted from previously published literature. both larger individuals subsequent generations. Survival hatchlings typically exceeded 90% two months post‐hatching, survival averaged 50% or sexual maturity when corrected removed populations experimental use.