The biology of Acanthoclinus quadridactylus (Bloch and Schneider) (Teleostei-Blennioidea). II. Breeding and Development

Abstract

A. quadridactylus attains sexual maturity in the third year of life, after which there is a seasonal cycle of gonad maturation and depletion. The condition factor of fish varies through the year and annual variation is comparable for both males and females. Fluctuations of condition factor for males cannot be explained solely in terms of changes in gonad weight.

Egg masses were found on the shore from July to January, although most fish spawn between August and November. Development is described from late cleavage to eleven days after hatching. In nature, each egg mass is guarded by a male fish until the larvae hatch and enter the plankton. Planktonic life probably lasts nearly three months before the juvenile fish settle and adopt the adult habit.