The reproductive biology of Gerres in Natal estuaries
1984; Wiley; Volume: 24; Issue: 5 Linguagem: Inglês
10.1111/j.1095-8649.1984.tb04820.x
ISSN1095-8649
Autores Tópico(s)Aquaculture Nutrition and Growth
ResumoAn investigation of the reproductive state and gonad development of Gerreidae in Natal showed that the fry of Gerres rappi, G. acinaces and G. filamentosus entered estuaries at 10 mm (s.l.). They stayed in the estuary until attainment of maturity, which was between 70 and 110 mm according to species. Gonad activity was initiated in estuaries but all females left before their eggs were ripe. Testes ripened while the fish were still in the estuary but no ripe running individuals were found. Since few large and no spent individuals occurred in the estuaries sampled, it appears that most fish do not return from the sea. Sequence of oocyte maturation and testes development were determined histologically. The estuarine area may be of importance to the fry as a safe nursery ground and to maturing individuals as an environment in which gonad maturity is reached for the first time.
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