spawning

Kype

Not to be confused with the popular internet phone/video chat platform of a similar name, kypes are hook like structure that develops on the jaw of some male salmonids during the spawning season.  Though Skype for salmon is still far fetched, this secondary sex characteristic does, in fact, have a role in communicating sexual fitness. Research suggests … [Read more…]

Tubercles

Tubercles are skin nodules made of keratin, the same materials as hair, hooves, and fingernails.  They are present on species representing at least 15 families of fishes, including even pet goldfish.  In many species, tubercles are found only on males during the breeding season and are shed shortly there after.  They are often called breeding … [Read more…]