Reproductive Strategies of Demersal and Pelagic Spawning Fish

Abstract

The spawning tactic of herring (Clupea harengus) wherein batches of eggs are deposited leading to a succession of larval cohorts is elaborated. We found the time interval between cohorts to be a function of larval growth rate as well as larval mouth size. In view of the relationship with growth rate we suggest a continuum of reproductive strategies with "bet hedging" by herring at one extreme and an "all at once" egg release by Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus) at the other.