Embryonic Development of Percula Clownfish, Amphiprion percula (Lacepede, 1802)

Abstract

2 Abstract: The Percula clownfish, Amphiprion percula (Lacepede, 1802) were reared in marine ornamental fish hatchery by using estuarine water to study their spawning behaviour, egg deposition and embryonic development. The spawning was recorded year round with the reproductive cycle between 14-21 days. The eggs were adhesive type, capsule shaped and bright orange in colour measuring 2.0-2.3 mm length and 1.0-1.2 mm width containing fat globules. The process of embryonic development was divided into 26 stages based on the morphological characteristics of the developing embryo. The time elapsed for each embryonic developmental stage was recorded. Hatching took place 151-152 hours after fertilization.