What is the whelks life cycle?

Whelks, marine gastropods, typically have a life cycle that begins with the laying of eggs in protected egg capsules or clusters. After hatching, the larvae enter a planktonic stage, drifting in the water for several weeks before settling on the ocean floor. Once they settle, they develop into juvenile whelks, gradually growing into adult forms. The entire life cycle can take several months to a few years, depending on species and environmental conditions.