Studies on the reproductive behaviour of the common catopra, Pristolepis marginata Jerdon (Nandidae-Perciformes) under captive conditions

摘要

Pristolepis marginata, popularly known as common catopra, is an endemic, ornamental fish of the Western Ghats of India. Even though there are quite a lot of indigenous fishes that can be utilized as ornamental varieties, they have not received sufficient attention and popularity among traders of ornamental fish. This paper deals with the studies made on captive breeding of Pristolepis marginata. To study the spawning of Pristolepis marginata, it is essential to understand the entire behavioural cycle of reproduction such as courtship, mating and spawning. This paper describes the behaviour associated with reproduction in common catopra. There is no demarcated sexual dimorphism except for a small genital papilla and a pot belly for the females. The male fish builds a nest in the pebbly bottom, guards the site and shows strong territoriality. It guards the embryo and larvae until they become free-swimming.