Ultrastructure of sperm and complete mitochondrial genome in Meretrix sp. (Bivalvia: Veneridae) from Taiwan

Spermatozoan ultrastructure and complete mitochondrial genome in the marine bivalve mollusk Meretrix sp. (Taiwan) from Taiwan are described and contrasted with other bivalves, especially within Meretrix. We have examined the features of the mature gonadal spermatozoa of Meretrix sp. (Taiwan) and provided comparisons with the other four Meretrix species (M. petechialis, M. meretrix, M. lyrata, and M. lamarckii). The morphological characteristics of these spermatozoa are diagnostic for each of the species studied here. The most marked interspecific difference was found in the acrosome. Meretrix sp. (Taiwan) is genetically distinct and is a different species from M. petechialis and M. lusoria (Japan) based on complete mitochondrial genome data. Sperm data for Meretrix are limited but show remarkable congruence with the molecular results. We suggest use Meretrix formosa Gwo and Hsu as the scientific name for Taiwanese hard clams, Meretrix sp. (Taiwan). Additional species, particularly the Japanese hard clam (M. lusoria) require examination before this tentative conclusion can be verified.