The male may turn and check on each release of eggs before resuming spawning position. Multiple spawning is common. Females normally release about one-half of their eggs during first spawn, half of the remaining during the second spawn, and a third spawn up to one month later is common. Females average about 4,000 eggs per pound of body weight, but the number can be quite variable. Large fish have larger eggs, but fewer eggs per pound of body weight.
Males attempt to guard the nest until the eggs have hatched and guard the fry until they disperse.
If he is successful, eggs hatch in 2 to 4 days in the southern United States, which includes the Brazos Valley area, depending on temperature. Nesting success is reduced if the temperature drops below 60 degrees, during cold snaps. They remain in a school for two or three more days before dispersing. They continue to feed on zooplankton and add insect larvae and fish to their diet when about 2 inches long. Return to BBC main page or EIT Project Workshop main page.