Who typically assumes the role of guarding the sticky egg masses inside the secure den?

Answer

Typically the male, though sometimes the female, guards them for several months.

Reproduction in the Wolf Eel involves a significant, energy-intensive investment in parental care. After the female deposits large, sticky masses of eggs, often numbering in the thousands, inside a secure den, one parent takes on the responsibility of guarding them until hatching. While it is most commonly reported that the male assumes this dedicated guarding role, the female may also perform this duty in some instances. This guarding period is extremely protracted, lasting for several months. During this long commitment, the vigilant parent must remain at the den, foregoing substantial feeding opportunities, thereby demonstrating a high level of dedication necessary for the survival of the offspring.

Who typically assumes the role of guarding the sticky egg masses inside the secure den?

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