Lateral line system during the life cycle of anguilla anguilla (L.)

Abstract

The maturation of the lateral line system in Anguilla anguilla (L.) is described. The various stages of eel (glass‐eel, yellow eel, silver eel), which are characterized by different degrees of swimming activity were compared, and changes were observed in the lateral line system during the transition from yellow eel to silver eel. The most evident changes occur in the pattern of the head canals and in the continuation of the lateral body canals as far as the caudal fin. These changes appear to be related to the greater swimming activity displayed by the silver eel.

Key words:

• Lateral line organs
• Pit‐organ
• Neuromasts
• Eel
• Anguilla anguilla