Temporal patterns in size and condition at settlement in two tropical reef fishes (Pomacentridae:Pomacentrus amboinensis and P. nagasakiensis)

Temporal variability in the size, age, and biochemical composition of newly settled fish of 2 tropical reef species, Pomacentrus amboinensis and P nagasakiensis, were examined over 3 recruitment seasons in the northern Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Juveniles of both species were more variable in composition (CV: 32.2 to 35.8%) than size (CV: 5.1 to 5.3%) and a g e (CV: 7.2 to 8.4 1 " ) at settlement. Overall, P. amboinensis settled over a range of ages from 15 to 23 d , while the larval duration of P, nagasakiensis ranged from 16 to 24 d . The biochemical composition of both species varied among lunar recruitment pulses. Strong interannual differences in the composition (princ~pally carbohydrate and protein) of P. amboinensisjuveniles were detected This variability in nutritional condition of newly settled fish has important implications for future patterns of post-settlement growth and development.