A note on the sexual reproductive biology of Ricordea yuma (Corallimorpharia)

Abstract

Ricordea yuma (Ricordeidae WATZL, 1922) is a tropical corallimorpharian found throughout the Indo-Pacific region. Individuals of this species are often found in bright colours making them popularly sought-after within the marine ornamental trade. Despite their popularity in marine aquaria, little is known about the sexual reproductive biology of this species and therefore it's capacity to maintain and renew genetically diverse populations in the wild. This note provides evidence that this species is gonochoric and engages in broadcast spawning during the austral summer. While further research is required to discern the size and/or age of sexual maturity, duration of the gametogenic cycle, and the precise periodicity of spawning, the information provided here is an important first in step elucidating the sexual reproductive biology of this species. Understanding the general biology of R. yuma will allow for a better understanding of this species’ life history, and enhance the monitoring and management of populations.