Rate of regeneration of two arms in the field and its effect on body components in Luidia clathrata (Echinodermata: Asteroidea)

The incidence of arm regeneration, effects of arm regeneration on non-regenerating body components and rate of arm regeneration were examined under field conditions. Approximately 60% of Luidia clathrata found in the upper portion of Tampa Bay, Florida were regenerating one or more arms. Individuals with two arms amputated at the disk edge took 380 days to regenerate completely. Both arms of an individual regenerated at the same rate. Length of regenerating arms initially increased faster than dry mass. No difference was found between non-regenerating and regenerating individuals for the dry mass of the body wall, pyloric caeca, and gonad of a non-regenerating arm. The absolute masses of the gonad and pyloric caeca were low through out the year possibly indicating a low food environment. Based on the rate of regeneration, arm loss just prior to the reproductive season may reduce the reproductive potential of this species.