Notes on the biology of juvenile Sparodon durbanensis (Pisces: Sparidae) from tidal pools in the eastern Cape, South Africa

Beckley, L.E. (1988) Notes on the biology of juvenile Sparodon durbanensis (Pisces: Sparidae) from tidal pools in the eastern Cape, South Africa. South African Journal of Zoology, 23 (1). pp. 66-68.

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Abstract

The length/frequency distribution, length/mass relationship, seasonal occurrence, growth and diet of Sparodon durbanensis from tidal pools in the eastern Cape was investigated over a two-year period. The fish were predominantly small (mean length of 53 mm TL) with the smallest specimens being found in summer. Juveniles were found to be omnivorous, consuming algae, crustaceans and polychaetes, although, with the acquisition of adult dentition (i.e. crushing molars), hard-shelled molluscs became important in the diet.