ABSTRACT
The pearl spot Etroplus suratensis (Bloch) is an important brackish water fish belonging to the family Cichlidae. It inhabits both freshwater and brackish water and is endemic to the peninsular India and Sri Lanka. It is an important candidate species for aquaculture in ponds in both brackish water and freshwater environments. It is cultured in traditional ponds in Kerala where it is considered a delicacy fetching a high price up to Rs. Though growth is slow, at a high stocking density table-size fish can be harvested in 9–12 months culture period. It breeds in brackish water throughout the year and in freshwater, during the dry season. The breeding behaviour of pearl spot is complex involving courtship, pamng, nest-making and parental care. Before pair formation, the fishes form several groups, the largest group with 20-30 members and the smallest with 5–8 members.
