Abstract
Describe reproductive behavior and mating system of the clown goby from field observations. Clown gobies exhibit a loosely haremic mating system. Pairs construct burrows at the base of cattails, the roots of which provide structural support and a spawning substrate. Larger males monopolize multiple burrows, each with an individual female. After spawning, males camouflage burrow entrances with sand and females brood developing young for 4 days. Males continue to guard the covered nests in 50% of observed brooding periods. Burrows are also used as shelter from predators. Both sexes confront intruders but only males exhibit a distinct color response to juvenile blue crabs, Callinectes sapidus, the most significant predator. The male color response appeared to mimic the color of adult blue crabs, a known predator of juvenile crabs, perhaps acting as a deterrent. The presence of the predatory blue crab may require one parent to perform deterrent displays, promoting female care in this mating system.
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The original version of this article was revised: The author’s name is Ana Gaisiner, not Ana Gaisner. The original article has been corrected.
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Gaisiner, A. Parental care and reproductive behavior of the clown goby, Microgobius gulosus, with observations on predator interactions. Environ Biol Fish 73, 341–356 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10641-004-6193-y
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10641-004-6193-y