The settlement behaviour of the larvae ofSabellaria alveolata(L.)

Abstract

Using larvae reared from artificial fertilizations in the laboratory, often for several months, many experiments have been made on factors promoting settlement ofSabellaria alveolata(L.). When at last able to metamorphose after many weeks of pelagic development, the larvae of this species crawl actively over any solid surfaces with which they happen to make contact, seeking indicative characters distinctive of their normal adult environment. If these are not found at once the larvae are able to postpone metamorphosis for weeks if necessary, remaining in a developmental state able both to swim and to crawl. If delayed too long in reaching a favourable environment some may metamorphose in the absence of normal environmental stimuli, others often become incapable of metamorphosing normally and do so abnormally, or they may die without metamorphosing.