Meeting Abstract

P2.45  Sunday, Jan. 5 15:30  Effects of symbiont density and feeding rate on sexual and asexual reproduction in Aiptasia pallida anemones CARLISLE, J.F.; LYDE, E.A.*; MYERS, A.G.; RULE, K.N.; ROARK, A.M.; Furman University; Furman University; Furman University; Furman University; Furman University betsy.lyde@furman.edu

Aiptasia pallida is a subtropical sea anemone that is used as a model organism for research in cnidarian-algal symbioses. Thorough knowledge of A. pallida reproduction is vital because of its role as a model organism. A. pallida reproduces both asexually via pedal laceration and sexually via broadcast spawning. The purpose of this study was to describe the reproductive cycle and development of A. pallida by analyzing lacerate production, gonad histology, and spawning events across different lighting and feeding regimens. Experimental anemones were housed individually and assigned to either a lit or dark protocol. Within each of these treatments, anemones were further assigned to a fed or starved treatment group. Three times per week, anemones were examined and new lacerates were identified. In one week out of every four for a period of six weeks, anemones in the lit groups were induced to spawn by altering photoperiod. Sperm and eggs were collected and quantified each morning during spawning weeks. At the end of six weeks of observation, all parent anemones were anesthetized and their tentacles were sampled to determine algal density. The body column of each anemone was fixed, histologically sectioned, and stained. Differences were observed in algal density and lacerate production between lit and dark experimental groups. This research provides important insights into reproduction in A. pallida.