Aspectos reproductivos de Chicoreus brevifrons (Lamarck, 1822) (Neogastropoda: Muricidae) de la laguna de La Restinga, isla de Margarita, Venezuela

Chicoreus brevifrons is characterized by being carnivorous, necrophagous, and relatively abundant in Venezuelan coasts, where it has an economic and ecological importance since it preys on oysters and other mollusks in marine environments and culture systems. This study aims at analyzing some reproductive aspects of the species in La Restinga lagoon, Margarita Island, Venezuela, at four stations from inside to outside of this lagoon. Samples were taken monthly and were used to determine sex ratio; in addition, some eggs were also taken from the site, for description and observation of initial growth of the species. C. brevifrons is characterized for being dioecious, clearly distinguishable for the presence of a penis in males and a vagina and albumin capsule in females. In general, sex ratio was 1:1, although females were more abundant than males during some months. Eggs from C. brevifrons are cluster-like, with 65 to 165 small white capsules. While the organisms develop inside the capsules, they are brown upon spawning, which takes place 45-50 days after they are laid. Initial sizes were between 1.60 mm and 2.56 mm of TL. Further biological and populations studies of this species are recommended in order to know more about its ethology, commercial importance and how they affect mollusk cultures.