Like any organism, without reproduction a species becomes extinct. Most fish reproduce sexually. Although some fish mate to fertilize the eggs, many fish reproduce through a process called spawning. Spawning is a type of external reproduction where a large number of sperm and eggs are released into the water at the same time. The large number of gametes increases the chances of fertilization. Often during spawning season, many fish of the same kind gather in one area. In a water environment with currents and many other methods of interference, spawning allows for the successful continuation of fish species.