Early life stages of development of the red porgy Pagrus pagrus (Pisces, Sparidae) in captivity, Argentina

Abstract

The early life history, from egg to juvenile, of red porgy Pagrus pagrus, in captivity is described. Yolk larvae were hatched 50 hours after fertilization, at 18C water temperature. The opening of the mouth took place between the third and fourth day after hatching, corresponding to 2.6-2.8 mm notochordal length. The transformation stage began at 9 mm standard length, approximately 40 days after hatching. The appearance of the fins favored the displacement of pelagic larvae towards the bottom, acquiring their demersal habit during the juvenile stage.