Observations on the breeding habits, shell development, decollation, and reproductive anatomy of Pontophaedusa funiculum (Mousson 1856) (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Clausiliidae, Phaedusinae)

Abstract

The internal and external egg morphology, shell development, decollation process, mating behaviour and reproductive anatomy (genital structure, inner structure of the penis, fine structure of the retractor muscle and the spermatophore) of the clausiliid Pontophaedusa funiculum (Mousson 1856) are described, and illustrated by photographs of the laid eggs, their inner structure, juvenile, young adult and old individuals, as well as a schematic drawing of the mating. P. funiculum is the only known clausiliid species with hard shelled eggs and the only known example of the family Clausiliidae which mates face to face. The taxonomic position within the Phaedusinae subfamily is mentioned.

Keywords

• gastropoda
• pulmonata
• clausiliidae
• pontophaedusa
• mating
• eggs
• breeding habits
• reproductive anatomy