A STUDY OF THE REPRODUCTIVE ORGANS OF THE COMMON MARINE SHRIMP, PENAEUS SETIFERUS (LINNAEUS)

The general anatomy and histology of the reproductive organs of the shrimp, Penaeus setiferus (Linnaeus), have been studied and described. Although the cytological phenomena of oogenesis and spermatogenesis have not been completely worked out, gross developmental changes in size and coloration of the organs have been related to histological and cytological changes so that the field worker, without access to a microscopy laboratory, may more accurately determine and record the stage of development. Observations have been included on the processes of impregnation and ovulation. Unsuccessful efforts were made to find clues which would serve as an index to the age of a shrimp. Evidence was found, however, indicating that a female may spawn more than once in a single breeding season.