Reproductive Guilds of Percids: Results of the Paleogeographical History and Ecological Succession

Abstract

A holistic picture of the Percidae is attempted, exploring the theory of reproductive guilds. Seven guilds encompass all 163 species; forms related closely in terms of Linnean taxonomy may belong to very different guilds. Adaptations in spawning ground selection, other reproductive behavior and morpho-physiological features of early ontogeny all center on respiration and protection against predators. The adaptation of guarding enables survival in low densities as well as in an environment with decreasing oxygen content, or enables invasion of such an environment. The paleogeographical origin and distribution of percid fishes are reconstructed along these lines. Over the short term, guild succession is enhanced by changes in fluvial gradient and lake metabolism. Key words: Percidae, succession, reproductive guilds