Reproduction annd development of Neosilurus ater (Perugia) and Neosilurus hyrtlii Steindachner (Teleostei : Plotosidae) in a tropical Queensland stream

Abstract

The reproduction and development of two plotosid catfishes, N. ater and N. hyrtlii, were investigated in a seasonal tributary of the Ross River, northern Queensland. The fishes were observed to move upstream to spawn during monsoonal flooding. Their mating behaviour, embryology and larval development are described. The adaptive significance of a flood-spawning strategy is discussed in relation to food availability, predation, and aeration in seasonal tropical streams.