The present study analysed reproductive biology and feeding habits of the common dolphinfish Corphaena hippurus, along the Saurashtra coast of India. The study is based on an investigation of 295 specimens caught using drift gillnet at Veraval. The samples were collected on a monthly basis between March 2015 and February 2016. The sex ratio was 1:1.75 with a significant dominance of females in the population. The size at maturity for females was 593 mm FL (fork length). Absolute fecundity of the individuals ranged from 1,07,813 to 15,50,400 having ova diameter range of 0.3-1.96 mm. C. hippurus spawned throughout the year with its reproductive activity peaking in April and December. Thus the dolphin fish has an extended spawning season; during which it laid eggs almost continuously. A total of 128 stomachs of C. hippurus, whose fork length FL ranged from 380 to 1250 mm were examined during the one year period of this study. Tunas were found to be the common dietary component of the dolphinfish.

Background: A study of the diversity, distribution and development of fish eggs and larvae as an integral part of a fishery research programme serves as a valuable aid in the proper management of fisheries. The study is also an essential prerequisite in understanding the spawning biomass of forecasting and trends of production. Information available on diversity of fish eggs from Indian waters is inadequate. The present study was conducted to understand the diversity and distribution of pelagic fish eggs in the nearshore waters of Gulf of Mannar. Methods: The present study conducted at three stations-Mandapam, Thoothukudi and Punnakayal in the waters of Gulf of Mannar, during 2017-2019. A total of 684 ichthyoplankton samples were collected. In the laboratory, the samples were sorted and identified. The diversity was calculated by Shannon-Weiner, Margalef richness index and Pielou’s evenness indices. All the diversity indices were done by using the PRIMER-E software. Result: Our investigation was taken up with objective to assess the status of pelagic fish eggs diversity in the nearshore waters of Gulf of Mannar and found to be more productive. From the diversity study, it is evident that the Punnakayal waters are habitat for a rich diversity of fish species and also a spawning and nursery ground for fishes. Fish eggs diversity is significant for management of fishery resources.