The vertical distributions and spawning site choices of red and yellow bluefin killifish Lucania goodei colour morphs

Abstract

A genetic colour polymorphism is present in bluefin killifish Lucania goodei , where red and yellow anal‐fin morphs coexist in clear springs, but the source of balancing selection is unknown. In a field study, vertical distributions did not differ between the morphs and there was little evidence that light environments differed qualitatively over the 200 cm at which fish were collected. A greenhouse study showed that both morphs preferred to spawn at shallow depths and hence vertical distribution and spawning site choice are unlikely to explain the maintenance of the colour polymorphism.

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