Publication Date

10-25-2025

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Journal of Fish Biology

DOI

10.1111/jfb.70258

Abstract

Understanding the sequence of embryonic and larval development and the factors necessary to induce reproduction in captivity are critical for developing new species for commercial or conservation aquaculture. In this study, we describe the adult reproductive behaviours and development of eggs, embryos and early larvae of captive monkeyface pricklebacks, Cebidicthys violaceus, compared to previously documented wild observations. Eggs were laid in cohesive clutches and guarded by the male parent until hatching began 23 days post fertilization at 13°C. Fertilized eggs were spherical, approximately 1.5 mm in diameter, covered in an opaque chorion, and contained six adhesive pads around the outside. We characterized the rate of depletion of yolk and the oil globule and growth of the embryo from fertilization until hatching. Notable embryonic stages were documented, including the timing of the first heartbeat, and the development of otoliths, intestinal tract, eye pigmentation, mouth, fins and the circulatory system. Larval length at hatching was about 7.4 mm, and larvae were immediately mobile and feeding on live food. Larvae were cultured and observed up to 18 days post hatch.

Funding Number

NA20NMF4270170

Keywords

Cebidichthys violaceus, embryo, larvae, monkeyface prickleback, reproduction

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License

Department

Biological Sciences; Moss Landing Marine Laboratories

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