Reproduction Biology Of Large-Scaled Gurnard Lepidotrigla Cavillone (Lacepede, 1801) From The Southern Adriatic Sea (Croatia)

The aim of this study was to define the reproductive characteristics of the large-scaled gurnard Lepidotrigla cavillone in the Adriatic Sea in order to understand the annual cycle of its reproductive development. A total of 1105 individuals were collected in the period from October 2011 to September 2012. The size of the samples ranged from 7.6 to 15.2cm in total length with a male to female ratio of 0.83:1. Based on monthly values of the gonadosomatic index it was determined that the large-scaled gurnard has a long spawning period extending from February to September with two peaks, one in May and another in August. Histological analysis demonstrated continuous reproductive activity since all stages of oocyte development were present in ovaries throughout the year with no inactive or resting periods. Spawning period in females was characterized by the increased number of oocytes in migratory nucleus or hydrated stage with the oocyte diameter ranging from 608.0 to 776.7m and in males with the abundance of spermatozoa. This study presents first information on the reproductive cycle of Lepidotrigla cavillone in the Adriatic Sea and contributes to our understanding of the biology of this important discard species necessary for its future stock management.