Larval development of the Cape silverside,Atherina breviceps Cuv. & Val., 1835 (Teleostei,Atherinidae) from southern Africa |
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| Authors: | FJ Neira Lyrinath E Beckley AK Whitfield |
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| Institution: | 1. School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150;2. Zoology Department, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, 7700 Republic of South Africa;3. Institute of Freshwater Studies, Rhodes University, Swartvlei Project, P.O. Box 49, Sedgefield, 6573 Republic of South Africa |
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| Abstract: | The egg and larval development of the Cape silverside, Atherina breviceps, are described and illustrated from material collected in the Swartvlei estuary. The eggs are spherical, 1,40-1,65 mm in diameter, with 6-12 uniformly spaced chorionic filaments attached at both ends to the chorion. TTie latter condition and the small size of the eggs are unique among the Atherina species. The larvae examined (5,1-15,7 mm) are elongate, have a yolk sac at hatching and are characterized by distinct body pigmentation and a prominent gas bladder. Flexion occurs between 7,6-11,2 mm, all fin elements are formed by 15,7 mm and scales develop by 20,0 mm. We compare the larval development of A breviceps with that of other atherinids and discuss the spawning of this species and the seasonal occurrence of larvae along the southern coast of Africa. |
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