An analysis of the spawning behaviour of the Arctic grayling Thymallus arcticus (Pallas) with observations on mating success

Abstract

In the Fond du Lac River, adult male Arctic grayling defend territories on the spawning ground for up to 7 days. Females do not defend territories and do not exhibit agonistic behaviour during the breeding season.The behaviour patterns exhibited by Arctic grayling during spawning are virtually identical to those exhibited by European grayling. The characteristic large dorsal fin of the grayling is of major importance during the spawning act.Less than 50% of all spawning attempts proceed to completion. Interference by other fish or the improper orientation of one fish may result in one member of the spawning pair moving away. Most often however, incomplete acts are the result of the female moving away for no apparent reason. Females may initially ‘test’ males or may simply not be ready to spawn when approached by males. Homosexual spawning attempts were rarely observed.