Field observations on the reproductive behaviour of the cunner, Tautogolabrus adspersus (Walbaum), in Newfoundland

Abstract

Courtship behaviour and pair spawning of the cunner, Tautogolabrus adspersus (Walbaum) were observed in Conception Bay, Newfoundland, during midsummer of 1977 and 1978. Courtship displays were recorded between 0600 and 2100 hours and spawns between 1300 and 2100 hours. The frequency of both courtship behaviour and spawns varied with the time of day. Spawning, but not courtship, is correlated with the tidal cycle. Spawns occur most often during the mid flood to high-tide phase of the eye le. Fish of both sexes are capable of multiple spawns per day. Both territorial and non territorial males acquire nuptial colouration between emergence from overwintering torpor and the start of the spawning season. Nonterritorial males are vigorously excluded from territories by the resident males and appear to contribute little to the reproductive effort of the population. Courtship and spawning occur only within male's territories. Group spawning was not observed. Sexual dichromatism and reproductive behaviour in the cunner are discussed with reference to other labrid species.