Gonadosomatic index in Barbus longiceps, Capoeta damascina and their natural hybrid (Pisces, Cyprinidae), versus spermatozoan index in the parental males

M. Th Stoumboudi*, W. Villwock, J. Sela, M. Abraham

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

24 Scopus citations

Abstract

The yearly gonadal cycle of two Kinneret teleosts, Barbus longiceps and Capoeta damascina and of their hybrid, was assessed by measuring the gonadosomatic index (GSI) in both sexes, as well as the spermatozoan index (SPI) in the males. SPI was established through a computerized analysis system, using light microscopy images of histological preparations of the testes. Barbus longiceps specimens had highest GSI in March, 6.31 for males and 1.40 for females. Capoela damascina had highest GS1 in January, 6.63 for males and 6.88 for females. In the male‐like hybrids, the highest GSI was 5.57 in February, and in female‐like hybrids 1.83 in March; no gametes were ever formed in hybrid gonads. The highest SPI appeared in B. longiceps in April, while in C. damascina the highest SPI was found in March. In both species, the highest SPI was attained several weeks after the highest GSI was observed. It is suggested that the peak of the breeding season of both species is actually represented by the highest SPI. In males, the decreasing GSI, which corresponds to the highest SPI, represents the loss of gonad weight, which is due to the elimination of the spermatid residual bodies, prior to spermiation. In the females the decreasing GSI is the result of ovulation, and characterizes the peak of spawning activity.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)865-875
Number of pages11
JournalJournal of Fish Biology
Volume43
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 1993

Keywords

  • computerized morphometry
  • cyprinids
  • gonadosomatic index
  • hybrid
  • reproduction

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