Details about the specimens

• 14 specimens. (accurate to within 2)
• specimens alive when found.
• specimens alive at end of the observation process.
• specimens left in natural environment.
• Reproduction was occurring.

At least 12 COTS observed spawning by Anne and Lyle at about 4.30 to 5 pm on 18 Dec 2009 on reef crest and slope between South and Palfrey Islands. This was at low tide (1.0 m at 1648) and two days after the new moon. All were males, extreme quantities of white sperm distinctly reduced visibility not just in immediate area but generally. Individuals were well spaced from each other, from about 3 to tens of metres from the nearest. Most were well exposed but some were within branching Acropora. Almost, but not all, COTS observed were spawning. When and where do the females do it?

Danielle Dixson observed a COTS on display in the LIRS aquarium spawn the following day 19 Dec at about 4.30 pm. It appeared to be a female.

Lyle and Anne went back to South and Palfrey for two dives on 19 Dec. No spawning observed on either dive. Killed about 12 COTS on morning dive 10.45 to 12.00, South Island end, and another 12 in the late afternoon 1645 to 1745, more towards Palfrey.

Supporting photos