Shape indices to identify regional differences in otolith morphology of comber, Serranus cabrilla (L., 1758)

Summary Sagittal otoliths from the Atlantic and Mediterranean regions of Serranus cabrilla L. were compared using shape indices (form-factor, roundness, circularity, rectangularity, ellipticity and eccentricity). Regional differences were best described by form-factor, circularity and eccentricity variables. The canonical discriminant functions were built with form-factor or rectangularity indices. The results indicated slight regional variations. The G-test was the criterion more useful to identify the otolith origin in the discriminant analysis.

Reproduction and growth of the painted comber Serranus scriba (Serranidae) of the Marine Reserve of Lanzarote Island (Central-Eastern Atlantic)

Abstract The population biology of painted comber Serranus scriba (Linnaeus, 1758) of the Canary Islands coast was studied to estimate gonad morphology, sexuality, age and growth. Analysis of gonad organization and development revealed that it is a functional simultaneous hermaphrodite. Its anatomy and growth pattern of the reproductive cells is similar to that described in other species of the genus Serranus , although the sequence of vesicles appearing varies during vitellogenesis. Spawning season occurred from January to September with a peak in June. Individuals reached 50% maturity at 17.3 cm TL and 95% at 22.7 cm TL. Length–weight relationship was described by the following parameters…

Analysis of gonad organization and development revealed that Serranus atricauda is a functional simultaneous hermaphrodite. The ovary is classified as asynchronous. Oocyte growth is divided into five stages: stage I (primary growth stage), stage II (yolk vesicle formation), stage III (vitellogenesis), stage IV (oocyte maturation) and stage V (mature egg). The testis is of the unrestricted or lobular spermatogonial type. Spermatogenic cells include spermatogonia, primary and secondary spermatocytes, spermatids (which form cysts in the seminiferous tubules) and spermatozoa (free in the lumen). The histological structure of the gonad and sperm morphology would seem to indicate that this specie…