Ontogenetic development of Lipophrys trigloides (Pisces: Blenniidae), with some notes on the spawning behaviour

Abstract

The full developmental sequence from egg to juvenile of Lipophrys trigloides in controlled conditions is described. In addition, some notes on the spawning behaviour of adults are provided. Embryonic development lasted 13–14 days at 21·00–23·00°C, 16–17 days at 17·25–18·50°C and 17–18 days at 14·00–16·50°C. Newly hatched larvae measured 4·8 mm, had the mouth and anus opened, pigmented eyes and almost no yolk. Most larvae settled between day 39 and 42 after hatching at 16·0–17·0 mm total length (TL) and showed full juvenile pigmentation patterns and behaviour 5 to 10 days later (17·0–18·0 mm TL). A summary of the characteristics of the eggs and larvae that may help in the distinction between L. trigloides and Lipophrys pholis, a very close related species, is also provided.