Reproduction and Early Development of the Paddlefish

Abstract

Paddlefish, Polyodon spathula (Walbaum), were observed spawning over gravel bars in the Osage River, Missouri. Eggs and prolarvae were collected. Eggs were hatched and young paddlefish were reared. The external features of the egg and prolarvae, hatching, and early behavior of the larvae are described. The effect of impoundment of rivers on the paddlefish population is discussed.