Assessment of the role of chemoreception in the mate choice in barbs of the Barbus intermedius complex from Lake Tana, Ethiopia

The role of chemoreception in mate choice was studied in barbs of the complex Barbus intermedius from Lake Tana. It was found that chemical communication may be used in reproductive interactions of the barbs, and that males are responsible for the choice. Mature males tend to prefer ripe females and avoid both immature females and mature males, or are indifferent to them. It was shown that selectivity in mate choice by certain barb morphotypes could reduce the probability of interbreeding between different morphotypes, but not provide for reproductive isolation between them. It was hypothesized that the mate groups are finally formed as a result of direct interactions between potential partners, mediated by tactile reception or specific behavioral patterns.