Mondbroedende

Mondbroedende, a Dutch term literally translating to "mouth-brooding," refers to a reproductive strategy observed in certain animal species, most notably fish, where one or both parents carry their eggs or young offspring in their mouths. This behavior serves as a form of parental care, protecting the vulnerable young from predation and environmental hazards.

The practice of mouth-brooding is most famously associated with cichlids, a diverse family of freshwater fish found in Africa and South America. In many cichlid species, the female will pick up fertilized eggs into her mouth after they are laid. She will continue to hold these eggs and, subsequently, the hatched fry, within her buccal cavity until the young are large enough to fend for themselves. In some species, the male cichlid may also participate in mouth-brooding, or the roles may be shared. The parent will typically refrain from eating during this period, dedicating all its energy to protecting its offspring.

Beyond cichlids, mouth-brooding has evolved independently in other fish groups, including some cardinalfish, jawfish, and even a few species of catfish. The specific mechanisms and duration of mouth-brooding can vary significantly between species, but the underlying principle of safeguarding young within the mouth remains consistent. This remarkable parental investment strategy is a testament to the diverse and often complex adaptations found in the natural world.