Abstract
Abstract Fine structures on the egg membranes of alfonsino (Beryx splendens) were examined under SEM to assist in egg identification. Alfonsino, spawn small spherical eggs, which have needle/petal-like projections over the entire egg surface (chorion). The projections of unfertilized eggs occurred at a density of 4.9 per 100μm2, the length of each “petal” being from 0.3 to 4.9μm, whereas those of fertilized eggs occurred at reduced densities (0.9 per 100 μm2) with shorter “petals”, from 0.6 to 3.4μm in length. These structures may play an important role in the attachment of the eggs to one another, and may improve fertilization effi-ciency during spawning.
