Osteological and functional development of the flyingfish, Cypselurus heterurus doederleini (Teleostei : Exocoetidae)

概要

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The osteological development and functional processes in relation to feeding, swimming and flying of the laboratory-reared flyingfish, Cypselurus heterurus doederleini were examined. Ossification started upon hatching at 5.54 mm SL (standard length) and almost fully ossified at 15.80 mm SL. Early ossification of cranial elements suggests the impact of strength on the neurocranium, thereby tolerating pressures from the developing brain, muscle mass, vertebral column and the trunk region. In the early stage, larvae were actively feeding which was attributable to the early ossification of the feeding apparatus. Active swimming and darting above the water surface were attributable to the rudder-like structure of the hypurals, providing more attachment for muscles resulting to sufficient force, and to the development of the pectoral and the ventral fin rudiments. Generally, the early on-set of osteological development in the early stage and the short period of ossification process in C. heterurus doederleini, suggest an early feeding, higher growth rate and the ability to escape from predators by darting and swimming, resulting to higher survival rate.
高知大学海洋生物教育研究センターの論文
1998-12-31