Field observations on the behaviour of the breeding males of Lipophrys pholis (Pisces: Blenniidae)

Abstract

This paper represents an ethogram of the breeding males of Lipophrys pholis based on underwater observation during two consecutive breeding seasons. Locomotory and feeding behaviour patterns are described. Agonistic behaviour patterns confrim previous work on captive juvenile fishes. New patterns include: "head turning", "opening and closing the mouth" and nodding. Nodding was only performed by nesting males and seems to be an important element of courtship. Parental behaviour includes: "rotation along the body axis", "skimming", "tail fanning" and "removal of air bubbles from the nest". During low tide the nesting males stay out of water inside the nests. When disturbed they show a number of defensive responses and produce a characteristic sound. The results are discussed in an ecological and evolutionary context.