Development of Laboratory-reared Eggs, Larvae and Juveniles of the Atherinid Fish, Hypoatherina tsurugae, and Comparison with Related Species

Abstract

Embryonic, larval and juvenile development of an atherinid fish, Hypoatherina tsurugae, are described using a laboratory-reared series. The eggs, measuring 1.60-1.78mm in diameter, were almost spherical, with numerous chorionic filaments. Hatching occurred between 13 and 17 days after spawning at water temperatures of 18.2-21.8°C. Newly-hatched larvae (5.50-6.70mm Notochord length) had 5+ 39 myomeres and the notochord under going flexion. Aggregate numbers of all fin rays were completed at 12.5-14.0mm Standard length (SL), and squamation at 19.0mm SL. The early life stages of H. tsurugae and related species were compared morphologically, and keys to each provided.