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Do fish eggs have to be in water?

Published in Fish Biology 1 min read

No, not all fish eggs have to be in water to survive; some species' eggs can tolerate or even thrive outside of water for certain periods.

While the vast majority of fish eggs require a water environment for fertilization, development, and survival, there are exceptions to this rule. The necessity of water stems from several factors:

  • Hydration: Water prevents the eggs from drying out.
  • Oxygen Supply: Water allows for gas exchange, providing oxygen to the developing embryo.
  • Waste Removal: Water helps remove metabolic waste products.
  • Support: Water provides buoyancy and support.

However, some fish species have developed adaptations that allow their eggs to survive out of water, at least temporarily.

  • Herring: Research indicates that herring eggs can not only survive out of water but may actually thrive under certain conditions.

In conclusion, while most fish eggs need water, some species have adapted to tolerate or even benefit from periods of exposure to air.