Self-fertilisation in Celleporella hyalina

The mechanism behind the self-fertilisation in Celleporella hyalina is investigated. Results show that autogamy is normally suppressed in hermaphroditic C. hyalina where outcrossing is possible, but self-fertilization is used as an emergency alternative. However, offsprings of self-fertilization experiences frequent abortion and absence of settlement due to reduced fitness as a result of inbreeding depression.