PRELIMINARY FIELD OBSERVATIONS OF MATING AND SPAWNING IN THE SQUID SEP1OTEUTHIS AUSTRALIS

摘要

Observations of a natural spawning aggregation of approximately 40 S. australis in South Australia have revealed several previously undescribed aspects of spawning behavior in this species. Male S. australis repeatedly copulated in the 'male-upturned' position and engage in behavior similar to extra-pair copulations that are reported for other squid species. Further research is being conducted in an attempt to determine the precise nature of these behavioral traits. Focal animal sampling of fighting, mating and spawning behavior using a digital camera will enable specific body patterning of each sex to be analyzed. Continuous recording of the focal animal(s) will also identify duration of spawning and mating, time between these events, and the frequency and characteristics of extra-pair copulations. In addition, empty egg capsules, which may serve as locational markers and/or spawning stimulants, were observed deposited on the distal fronds of macroalgae within the spawning area Laboratory and field studies will investigate this unusual behavior.