Observations of ovarian involution in the Australian grayling (Prototroctes mareana)

Abstract  – A 2-year study of the threatened Australian grayling, Prototroctes mareana, was undertaken to investigate its reproductive strategy in relation to river flow. Monitoring of reproductive maturity in the Barwon River in south-eastern Australia indicated that no spawning occurred in the 2 years. In both years, ovarian involution was observed in a large proportion of the sampled population; flows during this period were less than the historical average. When coupled with the historical evidence, these observations suggest that spawning coincides with increased river discharge. River regulation may inhibit spawning.