Figure 1

Conceptual illustration indicating known biotic and abiotic factors influencing buoyancy on European hake eggs (left panel). The correct interaction between the oil cover layer (OCL) and the oil droplet (OD) during embryonic development determines the formation of the OCL–OD complex, which plays a determinant role in larval viability (right panel). An incorrect OCL–OD embryonic assembly prevents the mobilization and assimilation of vital OD nutrient content by larvae.