Shellfish reproduction

Shellfish reproduce through a process called spawning, where males release sperm and females release eggs into the water. Fertilization occurs externally when sperm meets eggs in the water column. Some species release millions of eggs to increase chances of survival. After fertilization, the eggs develop into larvae that drift with the currents, feeding and growing. Eventually, these larvae settle onto the seabed and mature into adult shellfish. This reproductive strategy helps shellfish maintain populations in varying and often challenging marine environments.