Reproduction of landlocked Aplochiton zebra Jenyns (Pisces, Galaxiidae).

Life-history studies comparing landlocked versus diadromous populations reveal factors associated with life-history evolution under different scenarios. We describe several aspects of spawning and development of landlocked Aplochiton zebra in Patagonia (Argentina) based on the presence of eggs, the gonadal development, the analysis of otolith daily growth increments validated by tetracycline marking experiments, and the analysis of standard length frequencies. Among Patagonian galaxiids, A. zebra showed intermediate size and age at first maturity and high fecundity, with vitellogenic oocytes covered with short chorionic filaments. Free embryos of A. zebra were larger than those of Galaxias maculatus and Galaxias platei. This information is particularly significant for conservational purposes when we consider the reduced distribution of landlocked populations of the species and the risks imposed by salmonid introduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]