Reproductive Ecology of Bivalves from the Genera Margaritifera, Unio, and Anodonta (Margaritiferidae, Unionidae): Review and Analysis

Available data on the reproductive ecology of widespread bivalves from the families Margaritiferidae and Unionidae in the most vulnerable period of their reproduction in complex life cycle has been generalized. The features of evolutionarily adaptive strategy of mollusks to various environmental conditions and relationships with fish have been revealed. A detailed review and analysis of the reproductive cycles of mollusks from the genera Margaritifera, Unio, and Anodonta reveal that, from the boreal regions with moderate continental climate to those with subtropical one, temperature is the main factor regulating all stages and timing of the reproductive process.