Pelagic spawning of the hawkfish Oxycirrhites typus (Cirrhitidae) |
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Authors: | Terry J Donaldson Patrick L Colin |
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Institution: | (1) Section of Ichthyology, Museum of Natural Science and Department of Zoology and Physiology, 119 Foster Hall, Louisiana State University, 70803 Baton Rouge, LA, U.S.A.;(2) Motupore Island Research Station, University of Papua New Guinea, Papua New Guinea;(3) Present address: Caribbean Marine Research Center, c/o Florida State University Marine Laboratory, Rt. 1, Box 456, 32358 Sopchoppy, FL, U.S.A. |
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Abstract: | Synopsis Pelagic spawning of the deep slope coral-dwelling cirrhitid Oxycirrhites typus was observed for two social groups at Papua New Guinea. This species was previously reported to be a demersal spawner in
an aquarium. Courtship in social groups consisting of a single male and one or two females commenced just prior to or after
sunset among the branches of gorgonian or antipatharian corals. Males and females occupied separate corals; males either visited
females at their corals or met them at an adjacent coral just prior to courtship. Courtship was sequential and consisted of
two or more bouts with each female that culminated in a rapid ascent into the water column and the release of floating eggs.
Fertilized eggs, taken from a third social group, were spherical and averaged 0.69 mm in diameter. Spawning pairs sought refuge
in their resident corals or in the coral where courtship occurred immediately after spawning was completed. |
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Keywords: | Behavior Courtship Eggs Habitat availability Site-attachment Social group Spawning ascent |
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