Exploring the growth patterns, gonadal development, and expression of igf1 in captive-reared false clown anemonefish (Amphiprion ocellaris): Implications for breeding programs and reproductive biology

Document Type : Original research

Authors

1 Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Burapha University, Chonburi, 20131, Thailand

2 INVE Aquaculture (Thailand), 471 Bond Street, Bangpood, Pakkred, Nonthaburi, 11120, Thailand

Abstract

Understanding the relationship between growth and gonadal development is essential for breeding programs and studying teleost sexual development. This study investigated the growth and gonadal development of captive-reared false clown anemonefish (Amphiprion ocellaris) aged one to eight months. We performed histological analysis and quantified insulin-like growth factor-1 (igf1) mRNA transcripts. The fish exhibited a maximum specific growth rate of 0.56 ± 0.11% day-1 at two months, with a negative allometric length-weight relationship. Histological examination revealed ovarian differentiation commenced in the third month, while male germ cells progressed rapidly. Ovotestis formation occurred between the fourth and eighth month, with primary growth stage oocytes being predominant. Ovarian tissue consistently occupies a larger area than testicular tissue. Expression levels of igf1 in the liver peaked at eight months, with the highest expression observed in gonadal tissues at two months, which decreased significantly in older fish. These findings suggest a potential role igf1 in ovarian differentiation and the growth of primary oocytes. Further investigations are warranted to explore the interplay between igf1 expression and other regulatory factors. This research enhances our understanding of fish reproductive biology and has implications for the captive management of false clownfish.

Keywords

International Aquatic Research
Volume 15, Issue 3
September 2023
Pages 235-247

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