Hermaphroditism in fish: incidence, distribution and associations with abiotic environmental factors

The distribution of hermaphroditism in fishes has traditionally been mainly explained by its dependence on biotic factors. However, correlates with major abiotic factors have not been investigated on a quantitative basis and at a global scale. Here, we determined the incidence of hermaphroditism in fish at the family and species level, tested the hypothesis that evolutionary relationships account for the poor presence of hermaphroditism in freshwater species, and tested the association of sexual systems with latitude, habitat type and depth. Functional hermaphroditism is reported in 8 orders, 34 families and 370 species of fishes, all teleosts. Sequential hermaphroditism predominates over simultaneous hermaphroditism at a ratio similar to 5:1 and protogyny (female-to-male sex change) predominates similar to 6:1 over protandry (maleto-female). We found 12 hermaphroditic species that can live in freshwater. However, seven of these species are from four primarily marine families while there are only five species from two mostly freshwater families. Protogynous and bi-directional sex changers have a tighter association with reef-associated tropical and subtropical habitats when compared to protandrous species, which tend to be more plastic in terms of distribution requirements. Finally, simultaneous hermaphrodite species live both in the deep sea and shallow waters in similar proportions. This study can be the basis for further research in specific groups for different purposes, including ecological and evolutionary issues as well as conservation and management of exploited species. Understanding the environmental correlates can help to forecast changes in the distribution or phenology of hermaphrodites in a global change scenario.

Automated summary

This study found the presence of hermaphroditism in fishes, mainly teleosts. Sequential hermaphrodites are more common than simultaneous hermaphrodites, and protogyny is more common than protandry. Some hermaphroditic species can live in freshwater, but more are from marine environments. Different types of sex change have different associations with habitats.