Aspects of Reproduction in Louisiana Necturus Populations

Aspects of the reproductive biology of Necturus maculosus louisianensis and N. b. beyeri were studied in Big Creek and Talisheek Creek, Louisiana, respectively. Collecting techniques included electrical shocking, seining, dip netting, and baited set lines. There was unusual success of female N. m. louisianensis captures on set lines. Morphological changes related to reproduction in the Louisiana forms are very similar to those of N. m. maculosus. The number of ovarian eggs in N. m. louisianensis (overline x = 54.2) and N. b. beyeri (overline x = 56.7) is less than recorded for N. m. maculosus. Oviposition occurs in May in Louisiana at water temperatures of 18-20 C. Guardian adults were not observed in nests, but water turbidity may have prevented their detection. Nest structure and eggs with capsules are like those of N. m. maculosus. Pigment patterns of embryos and hatchlings of N. m. louisianensis and N. b. beyeri differ.