Life history aspects ofPhalloceros anisophallosLucinda, 2008 (Osteichthyes, Poeciliidae) from Córrego Andorinha, Ilha Grande (RJ, Brazil)

A rare reproductive pattern in the Poeciliidae family was identified in Phalloceros anisophallos, a fish species from Córrego Andorinha, Ilha Grande (RJ, Brazil). The study revealed that while superfetation—a simultaneous development of multiple broods—was absent, there was significant matrotrophy, where the dry weight of developing embryos increased substantially. This combination of traits is uncommon in Poeciliidae but appears typical for the genus Phalloceros. The research also found year-round reproduction with a slight reduction around April and noted that males were smaller and less abundant than females. The study analyzed brood size, reproductive season, length-weight relationships, and female weight-brood size dynamics to uncover these insights.

Almeida-Silva, P. H., & Mazzoni, R. (2014). Life history aspects ofPhalloceros anisophallosLucinda, 2008 (Osteichthyes, Poeciliidae) from Córrego Andorinha, Ilha Grande (RJ, Brazil). Studies on Neotropical Fauna and Environment, 49(3), 191–198. https://doi.org/10.1080/01650521.2014.957968