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Larval ontogeny and morphology of giant trahira Hoplias lacerdae
Author(s) -
Gomes M. L. M.,
Matta S. L. P.,
Araújo V. A.,
Silva G. M. F.,
Zacaro A. A.
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
journal of fish biology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.672
H-Index - 115
eISSN - 1095-8649
pISSN - 0022-1112
DOI - 10.1111/j.1095-8649.2010.02540.x
Subject(s) - biology , operculum (bryozoa) , ontogeny , yolk sac , hatching , larva , anatomy , yolk , zoology , morphology (biology) , embryo , fishery , ecology , endocrinology , genus
In the present study, the morphology and behaviour of giant trahira Hoplias lacerdae larvae were investigated, from hatching to complete absorption of the yolk sac, under laboratory conditions. In the first day post‐hatching (dph), the larvae presented a big ovoid‐shaped yolk sac that underwent regression during larval ontogeny. The mouth opened 3 dph, when the pectoral fins were evident. From this day, the larvae were able to perform sudden bursts of activity and appear to be able to swim a few centimetres before sinking again. The branchial apparatus was defined at 5 dph, and by 6 dph the operculum was formed. The internal organs such as intestine, liver, kidney and external sensorial structures were present at 7 dph. The yolk sac remained until 7 dph.