Mating and feeding protocols were described by
Kenway et al. (2006). Briefly, female broodstock were
artificially inseminated two days post-moult using half,
one or two spermatophores. Male broodstock were held
at 28 °C for three weeks prior to collecting spermatophores which were extracted by electro-ejaculation. Immediately after artificial insemination, each female was
unilaterally eyestalk ablated (Primavera, 1978) to induce
maturation and multiple spawning using heated wire
snips, eye-tagged for individual identification and then
returned to its tank. Ablated females were monitored
each afternoon, using a submerged torch, for signs of
ovarian development.