Developmental and ecological stages in the life history of milkfish Chanos chanos (F.)

Abstract

Seven stages in the life history of milkfish Chanos chanos are suggested: embryonic, yolksac larval, larval, postlarval, juvenile, sub-adult and adult stages. These were based on morphological differences and on their particular ecological requirements. The latter include: behavioral pattern, food and feeding habits, and habitat requirements. Throughout the life cycle of milkfish the stronger driving force with determines particular behavioral strategies can be attributed to the evolutionary response of the organism of food distribution (availability) followed by predation pressure.