courtship
Any behavioural interaction between male and female individuals which leads to or initiates spawning.
Used in 264 profiles
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Ichthyological terms, not general ones.
courtship ritual
Complex, genetically-determined sequence of behaviour, usually employing a combination of visual, auditory and chemical stimuli taking place before spawning. Either or both sexes may be the protagonist.
Used in 2 profiles
branchiostegal membrane
The membrane, sometimes referred to as the gill membrane, connecting the branchiostegal rays and enclosing the ventral portion of the branchial cavity. Normally extended when the opercle of a fish is open, sealing the branchial cavity and creating a vacuum in the mouth, and also used during threat, courtship and other communicative behaviours in many species.
Used in 5 profiles