Protogynous sex reversal in bogue, boops [Linnaeus, 1758] [teleostei: sparidae]

ABSTRACT

Gonadal anatomy and histology of Boops boops indicated the occurrence of protogynous sex reversal in only a few individuals [about 8%]. The hermaphrodite gonads possess distinct ovarian and testicular parts which develop and function sequentially. Sex reversal occurs by regression of the ovarian part after ovulation, concomitant with a gradual development of the testicular part. At sex reversal, ova are resorbed in two ways; unovulated mateure yolky ova are invaded and phagocytised by granulosa cells while non-yolky ova are not invaded but fragmented and absorbed