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Animals
Special Issues
Fish Reproductive Biology and Embryogenesis
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Fish Reproductive Biology and Embryogenesis

A special issue of Animals (ISSN 2076-2615). This special issue belongs to the section "Animal Reproduction".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 August 2026 | Viewed by 6035

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Renato Massaaki Honji

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Guest Editor
Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo (IB/USP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
Interests: aquaculture; reproduction; animal physiology; neuroendocrinology and endocrinology; gametogenesis; steroidogenesis; embryogenesis
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Amanda da Silveira Guerreiro

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo (IB/USP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
Interests: contaminants of emerging concern; reproduction; biomarkers; ecotoxicology; molluscs; teleosts; climate change; embryology; immune system; animal physiology; molecular biology; endocrinology; antioxidant defense system; biotransformation

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Fish have developed an amazing range of reproductive strategies and of embryonic and larval development over millions of years of evolution. Understanding species survival, adaptation, and diversification fundamentally relies on the mechanisms governing fish reproduction and embryogenesis, ranging from external fertilization in free-spawning species to intricate parental care behaviors. Recent developments in reproductive endocrinology, gametogenesis, and embryonic growth have revealed important genetic, chemical, and environmental elements determining reproductive success. Studies on oogenesis, spermatogenesis, sex differentiation, hormonal control, and the effects of climate change on reproductive cycles among others continue to disclose key points of fish biology. Furthermore, emerging studies in embryology are expanding our understanding of early developmental stages across taxa, exploring mechanisms such as axis formation, morphogen gradients, epigenetic regulation, and maternal effects. This Special Issue aims to highlight original research and in-depth analyses of the mechanisms governing fish reproduction and development. We welcome studies exploring evolutionary, ecological, physiological, and molecular perspectives that offer new insights into the factors shaping fish populations and life history strategies. By combining multi-disciplinary approaches, from comparative morphology to advanced genomics, we seek to enhance our understanding of fish reproductive biology and embryogenesis, revealing their broader implications for evolutionary dynamics and developmental processes.

Dr. Renato Massaaki Honji
Dr. Amanda da Silveira Guerreiro
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Animals is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • oogenesis
  • spermatogenesis
  • hormonal control
  • embryonic development
  • climate change impact

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

Jump to: Review

18 pages, 7115 KB  
Article
Unveiling Embryonic Development of the Threatened Neotropical Fish Prochilodus vimboides (Characiformes: Prochilodontidae)
by Renato Massaaki Honji, Amanda da Silveira Guerreiro, Bruno Cavalheiro Araújo, Danilo Caneppele, Sergio Ricardo Batlouni and Renata Guimarães Moreira
Animals 2026, 16(5), 852; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16050852 - 9 Mar 2026
Viewed by 129
Abstract
Understanding embryonic development is fundamental to improving captive breeding protocols and supporting conservation strategies for threatened fish species. Prochilodus vimboides is a Neotropical freshwater fish for which detailed information on early ontogeny remains scarce. This study aimed to characterize the embryonic and early [...] Read more.
Understanding embryonic development is fundamental to improving captive breeding protocols and supporting conservation strategies for threatened fish species. Prochilodus vimboides is a Neotropical freshwater fish for which detailed information on early ontogeny remains scarce. This study aimed to characterize the embryonic and early larval development of P. vimboides under captive conditions. Broodstock were hormonally induced to reproduce, and extrusion occurred between 209 and 230 degree-hours after induction at 21.49 ± 0.15 °C. Embryonic development was monitored at regular intervals after fertilization (AF) using freshly collected eggs examined under a stereomicroscope. The principal developmental stages were identified, namely zygote, cleavage, including morula and blastula, gastrula, organogenesis, and hatching. Fertilized oocytes exhibited marked hydration and formation of a large perivitelline space at 15 min AF. More than 50% of embryos reached the two-blastomere stage by 20 min AF, and cleavage continued until 2 h 14 min AF. The gastrula stage was observed at 3 h 23 min AF, blastopore closure occurred at 11 h 47 min AF, and organogenesis began at 12 h 55 min AF. Complete hatching occurred at 22 h 04 min AF, and larvae subsequently initiated yolk sac absorption without cannibalistic behavior. These findings provide a species-specific developmental framework that supports captive production and conservation efforts for P. vimboides in the Paraíba do Sul River Basin. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fish Reproductive Biology and Embryogenesis)
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24 pages, 2897 KB  
Article
The Effects of Hormone Diets with Different 17β-Estradiol Levels on Growth and Feminization in Long-Whiskered Catfish (Mystus gulio) Larvae Using Conventional and Microencapsulated Feed
by Sahabhop Dokkaew, Kritchavat Songdum, Noratat Prachom, Wiwiththanon Boonyung, Suwaree Kitikiew, Khwankhao Khamphet, Preecha Waicharoen, Uthairat Na-Nakorn, Natthapong Paankhao, Anurak Uchuwittayakul and Phunsin Kantha
Animals 2026, 16(2), 268; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16020268 - 15 Jan 2026
Viewed by 527
Abstract
Feminization is an important biotechnological approach in aquaculture for species in which females exhibit superior growth and higher market value. The long-whiskered catfish (Mystus gulio), a euryhaline species cultivated in both monoculture and co-culture systems, contributes to sustainable aquaculture by grazing [...] Read more.
Feminization is an important biotechnological approach in aquaculture for species in which females exhibit superior growth and higher market value. The long-whiskered catfish (Mystus gulio), a euryhaline species cultivated in both monoculture and co-culture systems, contributes to sustainable aquaculture by grazing on uneaten feed and maintaining pond cleanliness. This study evaluated the effects of dietary 17β-estradiol (E2) at 0, 10, 30, and 60 mg/kg, incorporated into conventional and microencapsulated feeds, on the feminization and early growth of M. gulio larvae. Treatments were administered during the weaning stage for 14 and 21 days under controlled rearing conditions. Results showed that larvae fed microencapsulated feed containing 60 mg/kg E2 achieved the highest specific growth rate (26.91 ± 1.92%/day), feed efficiency (164.76 ± 33.23%), and feminization success (99.73 ± 0.04%). Hormonal assays confirmed elevated estradiol and reduced testosterone levels, consistent with ovarian development observed in histological sections. Gene expression analysis further supported these findings through the significant upregulation of cyp19a, erb1, and erb2 mRNA levels. Overall, this study demonstrates that microencapsulated hormone feeding is an effective and environmentally responsible strategy for achieving monosex female populations in M. gulio, enhancing productivity, reproductive performance, and sustainability in aquaculture systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fish Reproductive Biology and Embryogenesis)
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18 pages, 7314 KB  
Article
Embryonic Development and Growth Performance of the Tomato Hind Grouper (Cephalopholis sonnerati): A New Cultivated Aquaculture Species
by Yimeng Wang, Tangtang Ding, Yongsheng Tian, Dongqing Bai, Xinlu Jiao, Shihao Wang, Chunbai Zhang, Fengfan Yang, Linna Wang, Zhentong Li, Linlin Li, Yidan Xu and Yang Liu
Animals 2025, 15(24), 3655; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15243655 - 18 Dec 2025
Viewed by 481
Abstract
The tomato hind grouper (Cephalopholis sonnerati) is an emerging aquaculture species, with significant commercial value and promising farming potential. To advance the theoretical framework for artificial breeding, this study systematically investigated the embryogenesis, early larval morphology, growth patterns, and heritable traits [...] Read more.
The tomato hind grouper (Cephalopholis sonnerati) is an emerging aquaculture species, with significant commercial value and promising farming potential. To advance the theoretical framework for artificial breeding, this study systematically investigated the embryogenesis, early larval morphology, growth patterns, and heritable traits of the species. The results indicated fertilization and hatching rates of 88.67 ± 3.93% and 79.67 ± 7.55%, respectively, with an average egg diameter of 0.87 ± 0.02 mm. Hatching occurred 22:55 h after fertilization at 24.80 ± 0.70 °C, corresponding to 568.42 degree-hours, and the newly hatched larvae measured 2.09 ± 0.12 mm in total length. Interestingly, as the fish grows, the color of its head patches shifts from yellow to red, providing a visible trait that can be used for early growth screening. After 15 months of graded rearing, marked growth disparities were observed among individuals originating from the same clutch, with the fast-growing group weighing 457.12 ± 58.68 g, which was 2.9 times greater than that of the slow-growing group. These findings underscore the potential of C. sonnerati as a valuable aquaculture species. Future efforts should prioritize enhanced broodstock selection and the development of fast-growing germplasm to increase its cultivation potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fish Reproductive Biology and Embryogenesis)
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15 pages, 2111 KB  
Article
Reproductive Characteristics of Odontobutis potamophila: Implications for Sustainable Fisheries Management
by Miao Xiang, Shasha Zhao, Bo Li, Li Li, Man Wang, Jie Wang, Ruru Lin and Lei Zhang
Animals 2025, 15(21), 3150; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15213150 - 30 Oct 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 593
Abstract
Odontobutis potamophila, a small benthic carnivorous fish endemic to the Yangtze River basin, holds considerable ecological and commercial value. However, overfishing and habitat degradation have led to a severe decline in its wild population. A lack of quantitative reproductive data has further [...] Read more.
Odontobutis potamophila, a small benthic carnivorous fish endemic to the Yangtze River basin, holds considerable ecological and commercial value. However, overfishing and habitat degradation have led to a severe decline in its wild population. A lack of quantitative reproductive data has further hampered effective conservation and resource management. To address this, we conducted monthly sampling, collecting a total of 894 individuals from Nansi Lake between August 2017 and July 2018. By integrating gonadal histological staging, gonadosomatic index (GSI) analysis, logistic regression, and fecundity assessments, we provide a foundational understanding of the species’ reproductive biology. The annual sex ratio was 1.06:1, with a temporary female bias in April (2.14:1) shifting due to male nest-guarding behavior. Both sexes reached maturity at one year and approximately 73.6 mm in length. Spawning occurred from March to June, peaking in May (GSI = 28.92%). Absolute fecundity ranged 2306 ± 1430 eggs and correlated positively with body size and age, while relative fecundity stabilized after age two. Individuals aged two years and older contributed over 80% of total egg production, reflecting a strategy of early maturation with high reproductive output at older ages. This study aims to systematically understand the reproductive biology of O. potamophila. These results support science-based measures such as Covering the entire window from gonadal maturation to fry dispersal, an annual fish ban established from March to June, a minimum catch size of 80 mm, and improved broodstock management for aquaculture and conservation efforts aimed at this and related benthic fishes in shallow lake ecosystems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fish Reproductive Biology and Embryogenesis)
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13 pages, 2623 KB  
Article
Histological Insights into Testicular Apoptosis Associated with Spermatogenesis in Pre-Pubertal and Adult Meagre (Argyrosomus regius)
by Gianluca Ventriglia, Neil Duncan, Ignacio Giménez, Constantinos C. Mylonas, Chrysovalentinos Pousis, Caterina Varvara, Luisa Valentini, Letizia Passantino, Aldo Corriero and Rosa Zupa
Animals 2025, 15(18), 2668; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15182668 - 11 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1468
Abstract
To overcome reproductive dysfunctions, recombinant gonadotropin hormones have been synthesised in different fish species. We were interested in gaining further insight into the effects of recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (rFsh) in meagre Argyrosomus regius spermatogenesis and in improving the existing knowledge on the role [...] Read more.
To overcome reproductive dysfunctions, recombinant gonadotropin hormones have been synthesised in different fish species. We were interested in gaining further insight into the effects of recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (rFsh) in meagre Argyrosomus regius spermatogenesis and in improving the existing knowledge on the role of testicular apoptosis. Germ cell composition and testicular apoptosis were compared in pre-pubertal fish treated with rFsh (PreP-Fsh) and controls (PreP-C), and adult meagre with testes in the proliferative (Adult-Pro) and meiotic (Adult-Meio) spermatogenesis phases. A lower density of committed spermatogonia was observed in PreP-Fsh compared with PreP-C and in Adult-Meio compared with Adult-Pro. In pre-pubertal fish and in Adult-Pro, apoptosis affected mainly individual germ cells and Sertoli cells. In Adult-Meio, a high number of cysts containing apoptotic germ cells was observed, and apoptosis often involved entire clones of germ cells. rFsh reduced testicular apoptosis in pre-pubertal fish, whereas the advancement of spermatogenesis in adults was associated with an increased density of apoptotic cells. The present study corroborated previous observations on the effects of rFsh on spermatogenesis in pre-pubertal meagre and provided further insights on the changing role of apoptosis in the pre-pubertal phase versus different phases of spermatogenesis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fish Reproductive Biology and Embryogenesis)
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17 pages, 2837 KB  
Article
Reproductive Management of Peruvian Grunt Anisotremus scapularis in Captivity: Spawning Dynamics, Hatching Rate, and Larval Survival
by Jordan I. Huanacuni, Renzo Pepe-Victoriano, Pablo Presa and Luis A. Espinoza-Ramos
Animals 2025, 15(11), 1579; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15111579 - 28 May 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1704
Abstract
The Peruvian grunt, Anisotremus scapularis, is a commercially valuable coastal fish in the southeastern Pacific that is facing overexploitation. To support its aquaculture development, this study evaluated the spontaneous reproductive dynamics of a captive broodstock held under natural photoperiod and temperature conditions [...] Read more.
The Peruvian grunt, Anisotremus scapularis, is a commercially valuable coastal fish in the southeastern Pacific that is facing overexploitation. To support its aquaculture development, this study evaluated the spontaneous reproductive dynamics of a captive broodstock held under natural photoperiod and temperature conditions in a flow-through system. Eleven wild adult specimens (3 females and 8 males) with an average size of 34.9 ± 5.4 cm and a weight of 986 ± 470 g were housed in a 9 m3 tank and monitored over five consecutive spawning seasons (2016–2021). Fish were fed a semi-moist, animal-protein-based diet (37% protein and 6.6% lipid) at 2% body weight/day. A total of 214 spontaneous spawning events produced over 83 million eggs. The highest reproductive output occurred in the first season (2016–2017) with 94 spawnings and 23.3 million eggs. Fertilization, hatching, and larval survival rates averaged 94.7%, 89.7%, and 75%, respectively, but declined in later years. Spawning showed marked seasonality from October to May, with a major reproductive pause in late January. The temperature (16–20 °C) and photoperiod (>12 h daylight) appeared to influence reproductive timing, alongside diet and broodstock handling. The findings reported herein are observational in nature and provide valuable baseline data for future experimental designs aimed at optimizing broodstock management in A. scapularis aquaculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fish Reproductive Biology and Embryogenesis)
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Review

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34 pages, 4690 KB  
Review
Environmental and Physiological Regulation of Reproduction in the Goldfish: Gonadal Development, Maturation, and Spawning Behavior: A Review
by Makito Kobayashi, Eri Iwata and Peter W. Sorensen
Animals 2026, 16(5), 775; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16050775 - 2 Mar 2026
Viewed by 309
Abstract
The goldfish, a member of the Cyprinidae (minnow family) is an important and relevant model for understanding how fish function and reproduce and can be better managed. Here, we review recent studies of this species and its strengths as a model system. First, [...] Read more.
The goldfish, a member of the Cyprinidae (minnow family) is an important and relevant model for understanding how fish function and reproduce and can be better managed. Here, we review recent studies of this species and its strengths as a model system. First, we review current understanding of how its neuroendocrine system regulates gonadotropin release, and then steroidogenesis and finally gonadal maturation in both males and females. Endocrine determinants of gender and sexual plasticity are described. Effects of the fish androgen, 11-ketotestosterone, on sexual and spawning behavior of males and females are reviewed. We also describe how several hormones (androstenedione, 17,20β-dihydroxy-4-pregen-3-one, prostaglandin F2α) and their metabolites function as “hormonal pheromones” to synchronize male–female spawning behavior and physiology. Insight provided by the goldfish has enhanced understanding of the neurobiology, toxicology, and comparative physiology of other fishes and provided lessons applicable to the culture of commercial carp and the control of invasive species, as well as conservation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fish Reproductive Biology and Embryogenesis)
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