Morphophysiological characterization of the embryonic development of Parkinson’s rainbowfish (Melanotaenia parkinsoni) under artificial rearing conditions
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Abstract
Parkinson’s rainbowfish (Melanotaenia parkinsoni) is a popular aquarium fish species. Despite its popularity, knowledge regarding its reproductive biology, particularly embryonic development, remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the morphological characteristics of Parkinson’s rainbowfish embryos at different developmental stages under artificial rearing conditions. Fertilized eggs (approximately 1.2 mm in diameter and transparent yellow in color) were collected and incubated at 26 - 28°C in a controlled environment. Developmental progress was observed at multiple time points using optical microscopy. The embryonic development process was divided into four stages: (1) zygote, cleavage, and blastula; (2) gastrula and segmentation; (3) organogenesis; and (4) hatching. Cleavage occurred rapidly, transitioning from a single cell to the morula stage within 6 h. Gastrulation was marked by the formation of the embryonic shield and yolk syncytial layer by 28 h. During organogenesis (34 - 130 h post-fertilization), key structures such as somites, Kupffer’s vesicle, otic vesicles, and cardiac activity were observed, with pigmentation appearing on the eyes and body. Hatching occurred between 140 - 164 h, yielding larvae approximately 3 mm in length with an average heart rate of 119 - 130 beats per min. This information may be useful for optimizing artificial breeding protocols and contributing to the conservation efforts for this species.
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References
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