First record of larval stages of Coryphaena hippurus (Pisces: Coryphaenidae) in the Mediterranean Sea

Abstract

The occurrence of early larval stages of Coryphaena hippurus is reported for the first time in Mediterranean waters. Four larvae between 3.25 and 4.80 mm standard length were found in ichthyoplanktonic collections taken off the Balearic Islands between 1985 and 1995. Their capture is discussed in relation to the life cycle proposed for this species in the area.

Keywords

• coryphaena hippurus
• larvae
• life cycle
• mediterranean sea