Neuroendocrine regulation in Lamellibranch molluscs

Abstract

Gametogenesis and spawning in lamellibranch molluscs may be controlled by either exogenous or endogenous factors. Though the factors like salinity or temperature in such studies have been widely elaborated by various workers, the endogenous regulation stilt remains in its infancy. Our experimental studies, based on the classic histological staining of the neurosecretory material, have revealed neurosecretory cells in the central ganglia of lamellibranch molluscs. The tinctorial properties of these cells may vary from species to species. The pyriform (pear-shaped) neurosecretory cells from cerebral ganglia revealed such endogenous regulation system affecting the release of sex products. There exists four successive stages in the passage of neurosecretory product within the sell body- This has been extensively worked out in case of Perna from Ratnagiri coast. The data have been correlated with the gonad maturation stages and spawning.