Mass spawning of Caesio teres (Pisces: Caesionidae) at Enewetak Atoll,Marshall Islands

Synopsis Mass spawning of Caesio teres occurred between March and August, 1983 on a reef emerging from deep water just inside the East Channel of Enewetak Atoll, Marshall Islands. Aggregations and spawning were observed from one day before until three days after the full moon. Spawning aggregations were not observed during the new or quarter moons. Spawning commenced after high tide, when the current began to flow out the pass from lagoon to ocean. The spawning aggregation of close to 1000 individuals migrated to the spawning site. Spawning occurred when the aggregate ascended to near the water's surface. Subgroups dashed horizontally within the aggregate, releasing a highly visible gamete cloud. Predation on spawning adults was not observed. Predation on spawned eggs was noted. The eggs of C. teres are described. Mid-Pacific Research Laboratory, Enewetak Atoll, Republic of the Marshall Islands Present address: Motupore Island Research Station, P.O. Box 320, University of Papua New Guinea, Papua New Guinea