Observations on the courtship behaviour of Deocata Pipefish Microphis deocata (Hamilton, 1822) (Actinopterygii: Syngnathiformes: Syngnathidae) in an aquarium

Abstract

The Deocata Pipefish Microphis deocata, is the sole freshwater syngnathid found in the Himalayan range. This species is categorised as ‘Near Threatened’ by the IUCN Red List and is also listed as a Schedule I species under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. This species is highly sought after in the ornamental fish trade due to its attractive colouration and uniqueness. The courtship behaviour of M. deocata consists of three distinct phases (initial courtship, spawning, and swaying) characterized by substantial behavioural alterations. M. deocata is a species where the action of females is more visible for commencing courting and strengthening at later phases. The females exhibit skin fold ornamentation to signal their readiness to spawn mature eggs. The first courtship phase is characterised by female quivering along with head pointing by both sexes and often tail entangling. As a sign of embracing the male often overlies upon the female. In the second phase, the female transfers her eggs onto the male incubating ventral surface with an upside-down body posture. During the final phase, the male forms his body into a contracting wave and lastly settles down in the bottom of the tank.