Reproductive Biology and Quantity Evaluation of the Black-Striped Pipefish <i>Syngnathus abaster</i> (Eichwald, 1831) in the Zaporozhian Reservoir

Abstract

The article presents the results of biology and ecology studies about the black-striped pipefish Syngnathus abaster (Eichwald, 1831) in the Zaporozhian Reservoir. Quantity and biomass of fish fingerlings and yearlings in different parts of the reservoir was determined. For the first time the reproductive indicators of pipefish in Zaporozhian Reservoir were investigated: the timing of spawning, fish fertility analysis, information on the number of embryos in the brood chamber of males were shown.

Aspects of the Reproductive Biology of Black-Striped Pipefish <i>Syngnathus abaster</i> Risso, 1827 (Actinopterygii: Syngnathidae) in the Zaporizke Reservoir, Ukraine

“…Black-striped pipefish Syngnathus abaster Risso, 1827 is the euryhaline fish species, able to tolerate significant variations in salinity, and thus lives in both fresh and salt water [1]. Representatives of the species are common in the eastern Atlantic from southern part of Biscay Bay to Gibraltar, in the Mediterranean, Black, Azov and Caspian seas [2][3][4][5].…”

“…As an alien species it is found in the fresh waters of the Black Sea, Azov Sea and Caspian Sea basins [1]. In the Danube basin it goes up to the border of Romania and Hungary.…”

“…Today pipefish is widespread and numerical species in the Zaporizke Reservoir [1]. It is found throughout the coastal area of the reservoir and its tributaries.…”

“…Long-term monitoring studies indicate a steady increase in the number and biomass of pipefish in waters of Dnipro region [1,3]. It is determined that it is well adapted and breeds under conditions of anthropogenic load of fresh water, which indicates the physiological plasticity of the reproductive system and ability to adapt to new environmental conditions.…”