Reproductive periodicity of the sparid,Acanthopagrus pacificus,on a hierarchy of temporal scales |
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Authors: | M Sheaves B Molony |
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Institution: | 1. Centre for Tropical Water & Aquatic Ecosystem Research, School of Marine and Tropical Biology, James Cook University, Townsville, Qld 4811, Australia;2. Department of Fisheries Western Australia, 3rd Floor, SGIO Atrium 168‐170 St George's Terrace, Perth, WA 6000, Australia |
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Abstract: | The reproductive periodicity of the sparid, Acanthopagrus pacificus, over four temporal scales is described. Acanthopagrus pacificus had a short spawning season between June and September, and within this, a peak reproductive period from July to early September. During the peak period there were several spawning peaks corresponding to a lunar periodicity, with intense reproductive activity on new and full moons that peaked during the period of the full moon when the tidal range was greatest. At the smallest temporal scale, spawning occurred at night on ebb tides. Because this study draws on data collected in 1991 and 1995, it provides a useful baseline against which to judge future changes in reproductive periodicity. |
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Keywords: | estuary fish reproduction gonad index spawning season tropics |
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