Simultaneous allocation of resources to arm regeneration and to somatic and gonadal production in Luidia clathrata (Say) (Echinodermata: Asteroidea)

Individuals from which arms had been amputated and fed a high level of food during the gametogenic period not only allocated resources to the rapid regeneration of the arms but to production of the pyloric caeca and gonads. This contrasts to reports of slow regeneration of the arms in the field and preferential allocation of resources only to the pyloric caeca and gonads of individuals fed a low level of food in the laboratory. The availability of resources has a major effect on the way in which they are utilized.