Polyandrous Fertilization Enhances Offspring Survival Rate in an Indian Major Carp Labeo rohita

Abstract

Fish, like most other animals, follow different mating patterns (e.g., polyandry, monandry, etc.) to have direct (non-genetic) or indirect (genetic) benefits and therefore, this study was carried out to explore whether the monandrous or polyandrous fertilization strategy could provide more reproductive benefits to the hatchery production of familiar aquaculture candidate, the Indian major carp, Labeo rohita. The study found no significant differences in the rate of hatching, survival and deformity of hatchlings, standard body length, and area of offspring between polyandrous and monoandrous groups. The findings, however, revealed that polyandrous fertilization ensured significantly higher offspring survival rate than monandrous group. This study ultimately confirms that fish breeders and other associated stakeholders can obtain more benefits by following the polyandrous fertilization strategy, which can ensure good quality larvae for successful aquaculture.