Larval Development of the Blue Dolphin Cichlid (Cyrtocara moorii Boulenger, 1902): Morphological Changes

Abstract

In this study, the larval development of Cyrtocara moorii was examined morphologically and compared with other Cichlidae species. The important morphological changes and critical developmental stages that C. moorii larvae undergo were determined during the process from hatching up to 20 days. It was observed that the larvae had a large yolk sac, transparent bodies, and undeveloped fins in the first days. Important developmental events such as eye development, mouth opening, onset of free swimming behavior, fin formation, and increased pigmentation were recorded. It was determined that the larvae started free swimming between 6-9 days, the yolk sac was completely depleted on the 10th day, and the larval development was completed, reaching the juvenile form on the 15-20th days. When the larval development of C. moorii was compared with other Cichlidae species, species-specific differences were observed as well as some similarities. It is thought that these differences may be related to the ecological adaptations, reproductive strategies, and evolutionary history of the species. It is suggested that future research should comparatively examine the larval development processes of more Cichlidae species and elucidate the mechanisms underlying this diversity.