Seasonal variations in proteins, fat and glycogen of the wedge clam <i>Donax cuneatus</i>

Abstract

85-87Variations in proteins, fat and glycogen along with water in Donax cuneatus were studied for 1 yr. Water content remained at high level during monsoon (July to September) and at a moderate level from October to January followed by slight decrease during February to June. Protein content remained relatively high throughout the year with a decrease during the breeding period and the maturation period. Glycogen content showed peak values when the clams were in gametogenic phase. It decreased during the breeding period but the increase in the glycogen content during December-January was due to the absence of resting stage in the gonad. The decline in glycogen content in September might be due to its utilization under unfavourable conditions. Glycogen content during the maturation period declined showing the utilization in sexual cells production and development. Fat content remained at a moderate level during the gametogenic period and increased during the period of active formation of sexual cells. It then decreased during the spawning period