Cytogenetic examination of early embryonic development in the white grouper Epinephelus aeneus (Pisces, Serranidae)

Cytogenetic examination of early embryogenesis of the white grouper Epinephelus aeneus (Pisces, Serranidae) was conducted. All progeny from different spawnings showed various types of chromosomal aberration. Proportions of genetically abnormal embryos carrying different types of chromosomal aberrations varied significantly with specific spawning of parental fish, and ranged between 35.5 and 79%. Although the data can only be regarded as suggestive, we do, however, propose that chromosomal disorders might be considered as one of the particular genetic factors affecting survival during embryonic and early developmental stages.