INDUCED SEX INVERSION, MATURATION, SPAWNING AND EMBRYOGENY OF THE PROTOGYNOUS GROUPER, <i>Mycteroperca microlepis</i>

Abstract

ABSTRACT Female gag ( Mycteroperca microlepis ) were collected from the Eastern Gulf of Mexico, maintained in closed systems and spawned. Sex inversion of this protogynous grouper was induced with oral application of methyl‐testosterone. Ovotestes of transitional males were described. Photo‐period, temperature, and hormome application were utilized to induce maturation and ovulation of females. Approximately 26,000 eggs were produced in 2 spawns. Fertilization rate was 50%. Larvae hatched after 45 hours at 21.0°C. Embryonic and early larval stages were described.