Observations on courtship and mating behaviour in Maltese populations of the killifish Apnonius fasciatus (Pisces : Cyprinodontidae)

Abstract

Courtship and mating behaviour of a Maltese population of Aphanius fasciatus kept in laboratory culture is described. Moles showed a brightening of their coloration. increased aggression towards other moles. and paid more attention to females during the period April-October. Moles took the lead in courtship. Courtship behaviour consisted of a number of acts. Some involved touching the female and these appeared to be designed to arouse sexual interest; others served to exhibit the male's body and to inhibit the female from swimming away. Mating commenced with the female pushing itself into floating algal mots: the male responded by wrapping its body tightly round that of the female. following which ejaculation of eggs and sperm occurred.