Field observations on the reproductive behaviour ofParagobiodonspp. (Osteichthyes: Gobiidae) at heron island great barrier reef

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Abstract
As part of a study on habitat selection by species of Paragobiodon (Bleeker, 1873) at Heron Island (Great Barrier Reef), underwater field observations were made on the reproductive behaviour of the species. Resident fish in coral colonies exhibited strong site tenacity, the coral habitat serving both as shelter and as the sole food source. Paragobiodon species at Heron Island exhibit a number of divergences from the typical gobiid reproductive pattern. Notable among these are the construction of an algal nest, permanent pair bonding or social groups, the participation of females in nesting duties and the defence of the nest site. These divergences can be ascribed to the nature of the coral habitat occupied by Paragobiodon species.