Shrimp reproduction cycle

Question 1

What is spermatocyst

Answer 1

The male attaches a pouch of sperm to the underside of a female

Question 2

How are eggs and sperm fertilised?

Answer 2

externally

Question 3

How many eggs to female shrimp spawn?

Answer 3

900-3000

Question 4

How long can the egg stage last?

Answer 4

5-6 months in the deep sea

Question 5

Explain the Nauplius (larval) stage

Answer 5

• Larvae hatch from the egg and swim to the surface waters.
• Plankton is available for food source.
• This stage lasts a few days

Question 6

Explain the protozoea stage

Answer 6

• Larvae continue to grow and feed in planktonic waters.
• Larvae go through several moults as they grow.
• This stage is variable and can be a few days - weeks long

Question 7

Explain the mysis stage

Answer 7

• The last larval stage where they start to develop a familiar shrimp body structure
• Currents move the mysis to coastal environments.
• Mysis seek out nutrient rich estuaries or mangrove environments

Question 8

Explain the postlarva stage

Answer 8

• Feed on detritus in the estuaries and mangroves
• Develop predatory behaviours
• Able to move and swim freely

Question 9

Explain the juvenile stage

Answer 9

• Move to deeper estuarine waters in search of larger prey
• Can be cannibalistic.
• When large enough move to deep waters.
• Continue to grow for 1-2 months

Question 10

Explain the adult stage

Answer 10

• Deep ocean is a new environment to reduce competition with younger shrimp.
• More mates available
• Most shrimp develop as males first and become females after 3 years.