Preliminary studies on reproduction of Puntazzo puntazzo (Gmelin 1789) (Pisces, Sparidae) under controlled conditions

Abstract Experiments were carried out under controlled conditions in September 1983 on the reproduction of Puntazzo puntazzo (sheepshead bream). The techniques adopted to stimulate spawning, the egg characteristics, and the phases of embryonal development until the sixth day after hatching are described. The best spawning results were obtained with intramuscular injections of HCG at 1 I.U./g of body weight. Optimal fertilization and hatching were observed at 22°C, the mean temperature of the sea water during the natural period of reproduction of Puntazzo puntazzo .