reproduction Flashcards
What is the most common method of reproduction in fish?
External fertilization, where eggs and sperm are released into the water for fertilization.
What is the difference between oviparous and viviparous fish?
Oviparous fish lay eggs, while viviparous fish give birth to live young.
What is a key feature of ovoviviparous fish reproduction?
The eggs hatch inside the female’s body, and the young are born live, but there is no placental connection.
What is a “spawning ground” in fish reproduction?
A specific location where fish gather to release eggs and sperm during the breeding season.
What is “broadcast spawning”?
A method of reproduction where fish release their eggs and sperm into the water column in large quantities, allowing fertilization to occur externally.
How do some fish ensure successful fertilization during external spawning?
Many fish use chemical cues (pheromones) to synchronize the release of eggs and sperm.
What role does parental care play in some species of fish?
Some fish, like cichlids, provide care for their eggs or young, guarding them and ensuring their survival.
What is a “nest guarding” behavior in fish?
Male fish guard their nests and the eggs from predators, sometimes displaying aggressive behavior to protect the offspring.
Why do some fish species exhibit hermaphroditism?
Some species are hermaphroditic, meaning they have both male and female reproductive organs, allowing flexibility in mating.
What environmental factors influence fish reproduction?
Temperature, water quality, light conditions, and the availability of suitable spawning habitats all impact fish reproductive success.
