Translation guide
The act of fish or aquatic animals releasing eggs and sperm. In Japanese, different verbs are used depending on the species and context.
To describe the biological process of fish or aquatic animals releasing eggs and sperm.
The most common and general term for 'spawning' or 'laying eggs' for fish, shellfish, and other aquatic creatures. Literally 'produce eggs'.
鮭は川で産卵します。
Salmon spawn in rivers.
In this pond, carp spawn every spring.
Literally 'lay eggs'. A more general phrase that can be used for fish, but also for birds, insects, etc. Slightly less technical than 産卵する.
海亀は砂浜に卵を産みます。
Sea turtles lay eggs on sandy beaches.
Specifically 'release eggs' into the water, often used in scientific or fisheries contexts for broadcast spawning.
サンゴは一斉に放卵する。
Corals spawn simultaneously.
To describe the seasonal journey fish make to their spawning grounds.
Specifically for fish swimming upstream to spawn, like salmon.
鮭は産卵のために川を遡上する。
Salmon swim upstream to spawn.
Noun meaning 'spawning migration'. Used in biological or fisheries contexts.
ウナギの産卵回遊は謎が多い。
The spawning migration of eels is full of mysteries.
The location where fish spawn.
Common term for 'spawning ground' or 'spawning site'.
この川は鮭の産卵場所として知られている。
This river is known as a spawning ground for salmon.
More technical term for 'spawning bed' or 'redd', often used in fisheries management.
人工産卵床を設置する。
Install artificial spawning beds.
The time of year when spawning occurs.
Standard term for 'spawning season' or 'breeding season' for fish.
産卵期には釣りが禁止される。
Fishing is prohibited during the spawning season.
産卵する is more formal and technical, often used for fish and aquatic life. 卵を産む is a general 'lay eggs' and can be used for birds, insects, etc. For everyday conversation about fish, both are acceptable, but 産卵する is the standard term for spawning.
These terms are not used for mammals giving birth. For live birth, use 出産する (しゅっさんする) or 産む (うむ).