Chapter 10 - Control of Growth and Reproduction

• Published in: Biology of the Lobster pp. 217 - 266
• Main Authors: Waddy, S.L., Aiken, D.E., De Kleijn, D.P.V.
• Format: Book Chapter
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Inc 1995
• ISBN: 0122475704; 9780122475702
• DOI: 10.1016/B978-012247570-2/50032-3

This chapter discusses the growth and reproduction in Homarus americanus that have been studied for more than 100 years, and during that time an impressive quantity of information has been produced on the subject. Experimental biology has been the key to recent advances in the understanding of the factors that control growth and reproductive functions. In preparing for molt, the lobster undergoes complex biochemical and morphological changes, leaving muscle and nerve connections attached. The molt cycle has been subdivided into a series of stages based on these integumentary and physiological changes, during which the body is first expanded in volume (stage A) and then calcified (stages B and C). Growth in lobsters is affected by temperature, light, nutrition, season, social interaction, habitat and population density, state of reproductive development, health, genetic potential, animal size, and a variety of miscellaneous factors which is elaborated here. Larval growth and development are influenced by similar factors and many of these act synergistically, making it difficult to predict effects. The reproductive cycle of female lobsters typically takes two years, but there are several exceptions related to female size and seawater temperature. There is strong evidence that environmental factors, such as temperature history and salinity, are involved in incubation success. The complex processes involved in both molting and reproduction are controlled by the endocrine system.