PERIODE DE PONTE DU POULPE (Octopus cyanea) D’ANDAVADOAKA DANS LA REGION SUD OUEST DE MADAGASCAR

Abstract

This study about octopus reproduction has been studied from catch data collected in
Andavadoaka region from February 2005 to February 2006. Data were collected from six
fishing sites where the fishermen of Andavadoaka mainly go. Octopus production changes
according to the season and the highest catch occurs during winter season. Young individuals
live on the shallow reef before moving to the deeper waters to reproduce.
A direct observation of the male reproductive organ has permitted to know the three phases of
sexual maturity. The scale for sexual maturity of female octopuses was determined from
microscopic studies of the oocyte. Five maturity phases, associated to the shape and color of
the female reproductive organ, have been observed.
The sex of the animal can be determined externally by the presence of the hectocotylized arm
for the male and by the difference of gonads inside the mantle. Immature oocytes grow inside
the ovary until expulsion. Fecundation happens within the oviduct.
Reproduction pattern i