ISSN:
1439-5444
Keywords:
Key words Spawning cycle
;
Semilunar
;
Damselfish
;
Dascyllus aruanus
;
Paternal care
;
Synchronized spawning
;
Subtropical Japan
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract A very distinct semilunar spawning cycle was found in a population of the damselfish Dascyllus aruanus on the coral reefs of Sesoko Island, Okinawa. Spawning occurred from June to September, only in the early morning, during a period of 2–4 days immediately before or around the time of the new and full moon. Males cared for the eggs deposited on the substrate for 2.5 days until hatching. Hatching occurred just after sunset, i.e., at the high tide of spring tide; the strong ebb current then would rapidly disperse the newly hatched larvae offshore. Females tended to synchronize spawning in a male's nest, also because multiple clutches in a nest would be more likely to survive until hatching. Thus, the distinct semilunar spawning cycle may favor females in reducing mortality of both eggs and larvae.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s101640070008
Permalink
