What reproductive activity is the male White Crappie dedicated to, requiring defense for up to five days post-hatching?
Answer
Constructing and defending a shallow nest on hard bottoms
Reproductive success in the White Crappie is heavily influenced by paternal care, demonstrating strong selective pressure on parental investment. The male plays a central and demanding role in ensuring offspring viability. This involves meticulously constructing a shallow nest, typically situated on substrates composed of hard clay or gravel bottoms in shallow areas. Once spawning occurs, the male remains dedicated to the demanding task of guarding this nest site against predators. This protective vigilance must be maintained continuously for a period extending up to five days until the eggs successfully hatch, directly impacting the survival rate of the next generation.
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