Monogamous Mating System and Spawning Cycle in the Gobiid Fish, Amblygobius phalaena (Gobiidae)

Abstract

Reproductive ecology and mating system of the gobiid fish, Amblygobius phalaena, were studied on the coral reef at Sesoko Island, Okinawa, Japan. This goby usually lives in pairs, and maintains territories with several burrows for shelter and spawning. Although a few paired individuals changed partners, most pairs remained together over successive rounds of reproduction. Mate guarding by females appeared to prevent males from mating with other females. Spawnings were synchronous with semilunar periods. Several expected spawnings failed to occur (12%). These may have been caused by the delays in spawning preparation of the paired females or by the disturbance caused by a typhoon. A pair spawned in one of the several burrows within their home ranges. Eggs were deposited on the ceiling of the burrow, and were tended by the paired male for 3–4 days until embryos hatched. The males tended eggs at the expense of their feeding. Aggression toward fishes approaching their burrows were exhibited by the males as well as the females. Because of its low frequency in females, this behavior did not limit their ability to feed.