Seasonal variations in the ovary and testis of Eriphia verrucosa (Forskal, 1775) (Crustacea : Decapoda) from Karaburun, SW Black Sea (SC)

Abstract

The present study describes the gametogenic cycle in an economically important and endangered crab species Eriphia verrucosa (Forskal, 1775) in Black Sea. The ovary and testis developed throughout the year and spawning occurred from late July to the end of August. The change in water temperature correlated with the reproductive cycle of E. verrucosa, whereas the salinity and dissolved oxygen did not show any correlation.