Early ontogeny of Labeo capensis (Pisces: Cyprinidae)

Abstract

The early ontogeny of Labeo capensis (A. Smith 1841) is described from wild-spawned, laboratory-reared specimens which were monitored for five months. Fertile eggs were non-adhesive, demersal and 2,9 mm (2,7-3,4 mm) in diameter. Total length at hatching was 5,4 mm (5,3-5,7 mm); at yolk absorption 7,9 mm and at pelvic bud formation 11,1 mm. Pigment patterns during larval development are described. Pigmentation began on the head and covered most of the body by the juvenile period. Myomere number remained constant after hatching and fin rays appeared in the order of caudal, dorsal, anal, pelvic and pectoral. Larvae periodically swam upwards and then passively sank, as has been reported for other  Labeo species. Egg buoyancy and larval behaviour are discussed with relevance to spawning habitat.