Voluntary spawning, early development and completion of the life cycle of spotted sand bass Paralabrax maculatofasciatus in the laboratory

Abstract

Spawning behavior and development of spotted sand bass Paralabrax maculatofasciatus were studied in the laboratory. Captive fish (15–20 cm standard length) spawned in 100-L aquaria at 24 C and 35 ppt salinity with a controlled photoperiod (13 h light: 11 h dark). Distinct courtship coloration and displays were observed. Courtship began near noon and continued all afternoon. Spawning occurred toward the surface during late afternoon. Development from fertilization to 3 d after hatching is described. Hatching occurred in 24–25 h at 24 C. Larvae were reared in 100-L aquaria with microalgae, rotifers, and Artemia. First feeding occurred 3 d after hatching, and 5.3% survival was obtained at 17 d (4.1-mm mean notochord length, 1.7–5.5 mm range). On a diet of minced clams and fish, first maturity was reached at 7.5 mo (19.5 g mean weight, 8.3–37.9 g range and 90 mm mean standard length, 66–116 mm range).