Quantitative and qualitative analysis of spawning behaviour of <i>Heteropneustes fossilis</i> (Bloch.) (Siluridae) in laboratory aquaria

Abstract

Induced breeding of Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch.) was studied in laboratory aquaria. Quantitative and qualitative data on pre‐mating, mating, and post‐mating behaviour and related parameters were recorded. Among the pairs examined, 83% spawned successfully. Mating behaviour started between 6 and 15 h after administration of pituitary hormones. The number of enfoldings varied from 25 to 350. Over 93% of the released eggs hatched within 21–24 h at temperature 24–31°C.