We studied clutch size and ovum mass in the rock darter, Etheostoma(Etheostoma) rupestre, from one site (population) in Big Flat Creek, Alabama, using two collections made in consecutive years. Clutch sizes of 98 females 28–50 mm standard length (SL) ranged from 18–94 (x̄ = 44) eggs. Mean dry ovum mass from 29 females ranged from 391–595 (x̄ = 491) μg. Both clutch size and ovum mass were correlated significantly with SL, and both SL-adjusted clutch size and SL-adjusted mean ovum mass showed significant differences between samples. Our general comparisons with the results of life history studies on several other members of the subgenus Etheostoma suggest that the reproductive life-history traits of E. rupestre are similar to those of other species to which it is most closely related.
Translator Disclaimer
ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE
The American Midland Naturalist
Vol. 150 • No. 2
October 2003
Vol. 150 • No. 2
October 2003