Larval and Osteological Development of the Sheepshead, Archosargus probatocephalus (Pisces: Sparidae)

Abstract

The larval development of the sheepshead, Archosargus probatocephalus is similar to that of other perciform fishes. The caudal and the pectoral fins are the first to form and the pelvic the last. The yolk sac disappears at about 4.5 mm SL and adult color patterns begin to appear at about 7 mm and are complete by 15 mm. The development of basic pigmentation pattern is described. The osteological development of the skull, axial skeleton, fin supports and caudal elements is also described.