Reproductive Potential of Stone Moroko (<i>Pseudorasbora parva</i>, Temminck et Schlegel, 1846) (Teleostei: Cypriniformes: Gobionidae) Inhabiting Central Europe

Similar to other invasive species, stone moroko is extending its global distribution. The present study aimed to assess the reproductive potential of stone moroko fish in a new habitat in Poland based on analysing the sexual cycle and fecundity. Fish morphometric data, age, and gonadal structures we...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Lucyna Kirczuk, Katarzyna Dziewulska, Przemysław Czerniejewski, Adam Brysiewicz, Izabella Rząd
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2021-09-01
Series:Animals
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/11/9/2627
Description
Summary:Similar to other invasive species, stone moroko is extending its global distribution. The present study aimed to assess the reproductive potential of stone moroko fish in a new habitat in Poland based on analysing the sexual cycle and fecundity. Fish morphometric data, age, and gonadal structures were analysed. Fish age ranged from 0+ to 5+ years. Most females and males (93% and 60%, respectively) had reached sexual maturity in the first year of their life, with the smallest length of 25 mm and 28 mm, respectively. The mean, standard length of the body was 50 mm. The spawning season was spread over four months from late-April to mid-August. Females laid eggs in portions, and the absolute and relative fecundity was 1372 and 1691, respectively. Stone moroko males were ready to spawn for a longer time period than females. The present study shows greater reproductive potential of stone moroko population in the central Europe than the native population, suggesting its successful colonisation in the new habitat.
ISSN:2076-2615