Reproduction of Scutus sp.

January 7, 2003
From: Timothy D. Loyd

Dear Dr. Rudman,
Concerning my mention mention of Scutus populating our aquaria. Unfortunately there is not much I can tell you about how the limpets are reproducing in our reef tanks. We have several large systems with many individual tanks as well. When I first e-mailed you about this, there was only one that I had noticed. Now they are in every tank and they are varied in size. I have not noticed any contact between individuals of the species, nor have I observed any unusual egg masses. If I ever notice anything relative to there reproduction, you will be the first to know. On another note, The only thing that reproduces more than the limpet is the multi-perforated abalone snail (Haliotis multiperforata). I have so many of these little snails that I could repopulate the ocean if need be.
Thanks,
Tim

tim@aquariumconnection.com

Thanks Tim,
On reflection, I should have realised that in a large scale system like yours, the appearance of a large population of a species could easily mean that the species is a good hitch-hiker rather than a good aquarium breeder. In the case of Scutus and Haliotis it could be a bit of both. Like all vetigastropod snails, they have separate sexes, so need at least one individual of each sex for breeding, but like many primitive snails, fertilisation is external, eggs and sperms being releasd into the water. The veliger larvae ar lecithotrophic, meaning they do not feed while in the plankton. As long as a you have a few individuals in an aquaria, it is quite possible that they could successfully breed.
Best wishes,
Bill Rudman

Rudman, W.B., 2003 (Jan 7). Comment on Reproduction of Scutus sp. by Timothy D. Loyd. [Message in] Sea Slug Forum. Australian Museum, Sydney. Available from http://www.seaslugforum.net/find/8838

Factsheet

Elephant Slug, Shield Slug, Ducksbill Limpet (Scutus sp.)

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