Observations on the embryonic development of capelin (Mallotus villosus MÜLLER) from the Barent Sea

Abstract

The embryonic development of the Barents Sea capelin is described, with emphasis of characteristic features which can be applied in the ageing of eggs. The development is described for three different temperatures observed on the spawning grounds off the coast of Finnmark. The larval size at hatching, the ability of the eggs to adhere to the substratum, and the fertilization rate at different salinities are also discussed.