Seagrass density correlates with burrow abundance and size in the Zebra Mantis Shrimp (Stomatopoda: Lysiosquillidae) / La densidad de los pastos marinos se correlaciona con la abundancia y el tamaño de las madrigueras de los camarones mantis cebra (Stomatopoda: Lysiosquillidae)

Introduction: Mantis shrimps are ecologically and economically important organisms in marine ecosystems. However, there is still a lack of information about their habitat, in particular, their burrows. Objective: To analyze how dense and sparse mantis shrimp burrows differ in abundance, size, sediment grain size, and water quality. Methods: We counted burrows in 10 x 10 m2 random plots in sparse and dense seagrass (ten plots per density), around Barrang Lompo Island, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Sampling took place at spring low tide from August to September 2017. Results: Two mantis shrimp species were observed: Lysiosquillina maculate and L. sulcata. Dense and sparse seagrass burrows did not differ in wall grain size or water parameters, both inside and outside of the burrows (P > 0.05). Similarly, there was no correlation between burrow depth and diameter in either dense (P > 0.05; r= 0.27) or sparse (P > 0.05; r= 0.33) seagrass. However, larger burrows tend to occur in denser beds, but there were more burrows in denser seagrass (t-test, P < 0.05). Conclusions: There seems to be a preference for dense seagrass beds, especially by larger mantis shrimps. The correlation between shrimp burrow abundance and seagrass density highlights the importance of conserving the quality as well as the extent of seagrass habitat.

Introducción: Los camarones mantis son organismos ecológica y económicamente importantes en los ecosistemas marinos. Sin embargo, aún falta información sobre su hábitat, en particular sobre sus madrigueras. Objetivo: Analizar cómo difieren las madrigueras de los camarones mantis en su abundancia, tamaño, tamaño de grano de los sedimentos y calidad del agua. Métodos: Contamos las madrigueras en parcelas de 10 x 10 m2 al azar (diez parcelas por densidad) en pastos marinos densos y poco densos, alrededor de la isla de Barrang Lompo, Sulawesi del Sur, Indonesia. Resultados: Se observaron dos especies de camarones mantis: Lysiosquillina maculata y L. sulcata. El tamaño de grano de las paredes de las madrigueras y los parámetros de agua, tanto dentro y fuera de la madriguera no variaron (P > 0.05). Tampoco hubo correlación entre la profundidad y el diámetro de las madrigueras, tanto en praderas densas (P > 0.05; r= 0.27), como no densas (P > 0.05; r= 0.33). Sin embargo, las madrigueras más grandes tienden a aparecer en las praderas densas, además había más madrigueras en pastos densos (t-test, P < 0.05). Conclusiones: Parece haber una preferencia por las praderas marinas densas, especialmente en los camarones mantis de mayor tamaño. La correlación entre la abundancia de madrigueras de camarones y la densidad de pastos marinos pone de manifiesto la importancia de conservar la calidad del hábitat de los pastos, así como su extensión.

Aquaponic System with White Shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei Rearing and Production of the Plants Batis maritima, Sarcocornia neei and Sporobolus virginicus

Abstract Aquaponics is a system that integrates aquaculture with plant production in which two species are benefited, and there is water saving. In this study was carried out with an aquaponic system to verify the interaction between the growth of the halophytes Batis maritime, Sarcocornia neei, and Sporobolus virginicus associated with white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei rearing. We also investigated if there were different responses of physicochemical variables of the water in the experimental shrimp culture ponds integrated into the growth of plants and control ponds, without plants, throughout a 56-day period. The treatment experiment and control presented a statistically significant difference in total dissolved solids, salinity, total suspended solids, ammonia, orthophosphate, and nitrite. In the experimental treatment, with the presence of plants and recirculating water, a reduction of total suspended solids, ammonia and orthophosphate was observed. The rate of shrimp production was not significantly different between treatments, and the performance was similar to that of other studies. The biomass gain of the halophyte B. maritima was 876.6 grams in 0.5 m² and of S. neei was 48.8 grams in 0.16 m². All plants of the species S. virginicus died during the experiment.

Growth, longevity, and juvenile recruitment of the white shrimpLitopenaeus schmitti (Burkenroad, 1936) (Decapoda: Penaeoidea) insoutheastern Brazil / Crescimento, longevidade e recrutamento juvenil do camarão-branco Litopenaeus schmitti (Burkenroad, 1936) (Decapoda: Penaeoidea) na região Sudeste do Brasil

Litopenaeus schmitti is one of the most commercially exploited penaeids on the southeastern and southern Atlantic coast of Brazil. Information about juvenile recruitment and growth patterns of individuals is important for management programs. The present study estimated the growth parameters, longevity, and recruitment of L. schmitti in the region of Ubatuba, São Paulo State. The growth parameters of individuals were estimated by the Bertalanffy growth model, and longevity was estimated with the inverted Bertalanffy equation. The growth parameters were, for females and males respectively: CL∞ = 53.10 mm and 43.23 mm, k = 1.82 year-1 and 2.19 years-1, t0= 1.10 and 0.69. Longevity was calculated to be 2.27 years for females and 2.10 years for males. Juvenile recruitment occurred seasonally from December to April during the first year of sampling and from November to May in the second year. Although the large peak in juveniles seen in March 2007 in the estuarine regions coincided with the closed season, the reopening of the fishery in June may promote the capture of large numbers of newly grown adults who have not yet reproduced.

Litopenaeus schmitti é um dos peneídeos mais explorados comercialmente na costa do Atlântico Sudeste e Sul do Brasil. Desta forma, informações acerca do recrutamento juvenil e dos padrões de crescimento dos indivíduos são importantes para futuros programas de manejo. O presente estudo teve como objetivo estimar os parâmetros de crescimento, longevidade e recrutamento de L. schmitti na região de Ubatuba, Estado de São Paulo. Tais parâmetros foram estimados pelo modelo de crescimento de von Bertalanffy e a longevidade foi estimada por meio da equação inversa de von Bertalanffy. Os parâmetros de crescimento estimados para fêmeas e machos foram, respectivamente: CC∞ = 53,10 mm e 43,23 mm, k = 1,82 anos-1 e 2,19 anos-1, t0 = 1,10 e 0,69, e longevidade de 2,27 e 2,10 anos. O recrutamento juvenil ocorreu sazonalmente entre dezembro e abril no primeiro ano de amostragem e de novembro a maio no segundo ano. Embora o principal pico de juvenis, na região estuarina em março/2007, tenha coincidido com o período de fechamento da pesca, a reabertura da pesca em junho, possivelmente, promove a captura de grandes quantidades de recém-adultos, que ainda não participaram da primeira reprodução.

Chronic effects of nitrogenous compounds on survival and growth of juvenile pink shrimp / Efeito crônico de compostos nitrogenados sobre a sobrevivência e crescimento de juvenis de camarão rosa

Abstract In response to growing worldwide market demand, intensive shrimp farming, based on high feed, has developed over the past decade. The nitrogenous compounds mainly generated by animal excretion can cause deterioration of water quality and produce chronic or even acute toxicity to aquatic animals. As prevention, theoretical safety levels have been estimated from acute toxicity tests and they are traditionally used to prevent toxic effects on biota. However, are those concentrations of nitrogenous compounds really safe to Farfantepenaeus paulensis? The current study aimed to investigate the lethal and sublethal effects of ammonia, nitrite and nitrate to juvenile F. paulensis based on safety levels. Each experiment was performed independently in 100 L tanks for 30 days. The survival rates and wet weight of all shrimps were recorded every 10 days. The concentrations tested for ammonia, nitrite and nitrate were respectively: treatment "T1/4", a quarter of the safety level (0.91 mg/L TA-N, 2.55 mg/L NO2--N and 80.7 mg/L NO3--N); treatment "TSL", the safety level (3.65 mg/L TA-N, 10.2 mg/L NO2--N and 323 mg/L NO3--N); and treatment "T2X", twice the safety level (7.30 mg/L TA-N, 20.4 mg/L NO2--N and 646 mg/L NO3--N). For F. paulensis cultivation, the real safety level for nitrite was estimated to be 2.55 mg/L NO2--N. For ammonia and nitrate, the recommended concentrations were <0.91 mg/L TA-N corresponding to 0.045 mg/L NH3-N and <80.7 mg/L NO3--N, respectively.

Resumo Em resposta à crescente demanda do mercado mundial, a carcinicultura intensiva tem se desenvolvido ao longo da última década. Os compostos nitrogenados gerados principalmente pela excreção dos animais podem causar a deterioração da qualidade da água e produzir toxicidade crônica ou mesmo aguda para os animais cultivados. Como prevenção, os níveis de segurança teóricos são estimados a partir de testes de toxicidade aguda e são tradicionalmente usados para evitar efeitos tóxicos sobre a biota. No entanto, as estimativas das concentrações dos compostos nitrogenados são realmente seguras para Farfantepenaeus paulensis? O presente estudo teve como objetivo investigar os efeitos letais e subletais da amônia, nitrito e nitrato em juvenis de camarão marinho F. paulensis com base em níveis de segurança. Cada experimento foi realizado de forma independente em tanques com capacidade de 100 L durante 30 dias. As taxas de sobrevivência e peso úmido de todos os camarões foram registrados a cada 10 dias. As concentrações testadas para amônia, nitrito e nitrato foram respectivamente: "T1/4", um quarto do nível de segurança (0,91 mg/L N-AT, 2,55 mg/L de N-NO2- e 80,7 mg/L N-NO3-); "TSL", nível de segurança (3,65 mg/L N-AT, 10,2 mg/L de N-NO2- e 323 mg/L N-NO3-); e "T2X", duas vezes o nível de segurança (7,30 mg/L N-AT, 20,4 mg/L de N-NO2- e 646 mg/L de N-NO3-). Para a criação de F. paulensis, o nível de segurança real para nitrito foi estimado em 2,55 mg/L N-NO2-. Para amônia e nitrato, concentrações recomendadas foram: <0,91 mg/L N-AT correspondente a 0,045 mg/L N-NH3 e <80,7 mg/L N-NO3-, respectivamente.

Population dynamics of Rimapenaeus constrictus (Stimpson, 1874) (Penaeoidea) on the southeastern Brazilian coast: implications for shrimp fishing management from a 5-year study on a bycatch species

ABSTRACT This is the first study to evaluate in broad spatiotemporal scales the growth parameters and population structure of Rimapenaeus constrictus, a barely damaged species composing the bycatch from shrimp fishing in the Western Atlantic. The abundance and size-class frequency distribution, growth, longevity and sex ratio were evaluated from monthly samples obtained in the northern littoral of São Paulo state from Jan/1998 to Jun/2003. We measured 5,812 individuals in which the sex ratio was skewed toward females; this was more evident in size classes greater than 10 mm in CL (carapace length) (binomial test, p<0.05). We selected 16 growth cohorts of females, and 8 of males, the majority consisting of younger individual cohorts excluded from the fisheries closure period. Growth estimates resulted in a CL∞ of 17.42 mm, a growth coefficient of 0.008 and a longevity of 579 days (1.60 year) for females, as well as a CL∞ of 16.3 mm, a growth coefficient of 0.01 and a longevity of 425 days (1.17 year) for males. Our results provide information of incontestable relevance to our knowledge of fishing management. We therefore strongly recommend that the fisheries closure period be changed to protect this species' recruitment period and consequently its adult individuals.

Diagnóstico e incidencia de enfermedades bacterianas y parasitarias que afectan el cultivo de camarón marino en estanques del sector El Zompopero y Salinas del Potrero, municipio de Jiquilísco, departamento de Usulután: en vínculo con Cooperativas de San Hilario / Diagnosis and incidence of bacterial and parasitic diseases that affect the cultivation of marine shrimp in ponds of El Zompopero and Salinas del Potrero sectors, municipality of Jiquilísco, department of Usulután: in connection with cooperatives of San Hilario

Las enfermedades bacterianas y parasitarias pueden llegar a comprometer los niveles de sobrevivencia de un cultivo de camarón marino. La frecuencia de aparición de camarones muertos en las orillas de los estanques o que aparecen en las atarrayas, son solo un signo o señal de que algo marcha mal en el estanque. Cuando los camarones están sometidos a factores estresantes se reducen su actividad limpiadora, no mudan y por tanto, son altamente susceptibles a la invasión de ectoparásitos. En grados de severidad 3 y 4 de la infestación por ectoparásitos en la superficie corporal del camarón, trae como consecuencia dificultades en la locomoción, la alimentación, la respiración, y finalmente sobreviene la muerte. Por otra parte, las enfermedades de origen bacteriano reportados en los sistemas de cultivo causadas por el género Vibrio, ha llegado a ser la enfermedad económicamente más importante en el cultivo de organismos marinos, afectando un gran número de especies; es catalogada como la causa de serias pérdidas económicas en la producción de camarón de cultivo en diversos países.

Bacterial and parasitic diseases can compromise the survival levels of a marine shrimp culture. The frequency of the appearance of dead shrimp on the banks of the ponds or that appear on the cast nets, are just a sign that something is wrong in the pond. When shrimp are subjected to stress, their cleaning activity is reduced, they do not molt and therefore are highly susceptible to invasion by ectoparasites. In degrees of severity 3 and 4, the infestation by ectoparasites on the body surface of the shrimp, results in difficulties in locomotion, feeding, breathing, and finally, death ensues. On the other hand, the diseases of bacterial origin reported in culture systems caused by the Vibrio genus have become the most economically important disease in the cultivation of marine organisms, affecting a large number of species; It is classified as the cause of serious economic losses in the production of farmed shrimp in various countries.

Molecular variations in Vibrio alginolyticus and V. harveyi in shrimp-farming systems upon stress

A study was performed to investigate the genomic variations in the shrimp farm isolates of Vibrio alginolyticus and V. harveyi when the isolates were subjected to environmental stress. Samples of shrimps, water and sediment were collected from Southern Indian coastal shrimp farms. Vibrio isolates were biochemically identified and confirmed using 16S rDNA and gyrB gene specific PCR. The bacterial strains were genotyped by PCR fingerprinting using GTG(5) and IS (Insertion Sequence) primers. Seven strains each of V. alginolyticus and V. harveyi were subjected to 10 passages through trypticase soya broth (TSB), which contained different NaCl concentrations (3, 6 and 8%) and trypticase soya agar (TSA). V. alginolyticus was also passaged through TSB with a 12% NaCl concentration. PCR fingerprinting, which was performed on the strains that were passaged through different salt concentrations, confirmed that V. alginolyticus and V. harveyi could affect the genomic variations, depending on the environmental conditions of the culture. The study highlights the complex genotypic variations that occur in Vibrio strains of tropical aquatic environment because of varied environmental conditions, which result in genetic divergence and/or probable convergence. Such genetic divergence and/or convergence can lead to the organismal adaptive variation, which results in their ability to cause a productive infection in aquatic organisms or generation of new strains.

Cultivation of marine shrimp in biofloc technology (BFT) system under different water alkalinities / Cultivo de camarões marinhos em sistema de bioflocos (BFT) sob diferentes alcalinidades da água

AbstractThe aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different levels of alkalinity for the superintensive cultivation of marine shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei in biofloc system. A total of 12 experimental circular units of 1000L were used supplied with 850L water from a nursery, populated at a density of 165 shrimps.m–3 and average weight of 5.6 g. The treatments, in triplicate, consisted in four levels of alkalinity in the water: 40, 80, 120 and 160 mg.L–1 of calcium carbonate. To correct the alkalinity was used calcium hydroxide (CaOH). It was observed a decrease in pH of the water in the treatments with lower alkalinity (p<0.05). The total suspended settleable solids were also lower in the treatment of low alkalinity. No significant difference was observed in other physico-chemical and biological parameters in the water quality assessed, as well as the zootechnical parameters of cultivation between treatments (p≥0.05). The results of survival and growth rate of shrimps were considered suitable for the cultivation system used in the different treatments. The cultivation of marine shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei in biofloc at density of 165 shrimps.m–3 can be performed in waters with alkalinity between 40 and 160 mg.L–1 of CaCO3, without compromising the zootechnical indexes of cultivation.

ResumoO objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a influência de diferentes níveis de alcalinidade para o cultivo do camarão marinho Litopenaeus vannamei em sistema superintensivo em bioflocos. Foram utilizadas 12 unidades experimentais circulares de 1000L abastecido com 850L de água provenientes de um berçário intensivo, povoadas a uma densidade de 165 camarões.m-3 e peso médio 5,6g. Os tratamentos em triplicata consistiram de quatro níveis de alcalinidade na água: 40, 80, 120 e 160 mg.L–1 de carbonato de cálcio. Para correção da alcalinidade, foi utilizado cal hidratada (CaOH). Foi observado um decréscimo no pH da água nos tratamentos de menor alcalinidade (p<0,05). Os sólidos suspensos sedimentáveis totais também foram menores nos tratamentos de menor alcalinidade. Não foi observada diferença significativa nos demais parâmetros físico-químicos e biológicos de qualidade de água avaliados, assim como nos parâmetros zootécnicos do cultivo entre os tratamentos (p≥0,05). Os resultados de sobrevivência e taxa de crescimento dos camarões foram considerados adequados para o sistema de cultivo utilizado nos distintos tratamentos. O cultivo do camarão marinho Litopenaeus vannamei em bioflocos na densidade de 165 camarões.m–3 pode ser realizado em águas com alcalinidade entre 40 a 160 mg.L–1 de CaCO3, sem comprometer os índices zootécnicos do cultivo.

Bio-filtration capacity, oxygen consumption and ammonium excretion of Dosinia ponderosa and Chione gnidia (Veneroida: Veneridae) from areas impacted and non-impacted by shrimp aquaculture effluents / Bio-filtración, consumo de oxígeno y excreción amoniacal de Dosinia ponderosa y Chione gnidia (veneroida: veneridae), en áreas impactadas y no impactadas por efluentes de granjas camaroneras

Mollusks are some of the most important, abundant and diverse organisms inhabiting not only aquatic ecosystems, but also terrestrial environments. Recently, they have been used for bioremediation of aquaculture effluents; nevertheless, for that purpose it is necessary to analyze the capacity of a particular species. In this context, an experimental investigation was developed to evaluate the performance of two bivalves C. gnidia and D. ponderosa, collected from areas with or without shrimp aquaculture effluents. For this, the filtration capacity (as clearance rate) as well as the oxygen consumption and ammonia excretion rates were measured following standard methods. The clearance rate was significantly higher for D. ponderosa from impacted areas, when com- pared to C. gnidia, from both areas. Contrarily, the oxygen consumption was greater for C. gnidia from impacted areas compared to D. ponderosa from both areas. The same tendency was observed for the ammonia excretion with the highest rates observed for C. gnidia from impacted areas, whereas no differences were observed among D. ponderosa from both areas. The results suggest that both species developed different strategies to thrive and survive under the impacted conditions; D. ponderosa improved its filtration efficiency, while C. gnidia modified its oxygen consumption and ammonia excretion. We concluded that both species, and particularly D. ponderosa, can be used for bioremediation purposes.

Los moluscos son algunos de los organismos más importantes, abundantes y diversos que habitan no solo ecosistemas acuáticos sino también terrestres. Recientemente ellos han sido utilizados para la biorremediación de efluentes acuícolas; para este propósito, es necesario conocer la capacidad de especies particulares que funcionan como biorremediadores. En este contexto, se evaluó la eficiencia de filtración (medida como tasa de clarificación), así como las tasas de consumo de oxígeno y excreción amoniacal en los bivalvos D. pon- derosa y C. gnidia recolectados en áreas impactadas y no impactadas por efluentes de granjas camaroneras. La tasa de clarificación fue mayor para D. ponderosa procedente de áreas impactadas, comparada con la de C. fluctifraga en las dos áreas de recolecta. Contrariamente, la tasa de consumo de oxígeno fue superior en C. gnidia en las áreas impactadas al compararla con organismos de áreas no impactadas y con D. ponderosa de las dos áreas de recolecta. La tasa de excreción amoniacal siguió una tendencia similar con valores más altos para C. gnidia en áreas impactadas, mientras que no se observaron diferencias para D. ponderosa entre las áreas de recolecta. Los resultados sugieren que ambas especies desarrollan diferentes estrategias para adaptarse y sobrevivir bajo condiciones de impacto; D. ponderosa mejora su eficiencia de filtración y C. gnidia modifica su consumo de oxígeno y excreción amoniacal. Se concluye que ambas especies, pero sobre todo D. ponderosa pueden ser utilizadas con propósitos de biorremediación.

Reproducción del camarón rosado Farfantepenaeus notialis (Decapoda: Penaeidae) en el Caribe colombiano / Reproduction of the pink shrimp Farfantepenaeus notialis (Decapoda: Penaeidae) in the Colombian Caribbean

The shallow water pink shrimp (Farfantepenaeus notialis) is among the socioeconomically most important resources of the Caribbean. The lack of biological and fishery information is of great concern for the fisheries management authorities. The presented study therefore aimed at the investigation of the reproductive cycle, the size composition and the size at first maturity of this species as a basis for the ordination and management of this resource. The study was conducted from June 2012 to May 2013 off the coast of the Caribbean Sea of Colombia. A total of 5 356 individuals were collected, identified, classified and preserved for their subsequent analysis in the laboratory. Size, weight, sex and gonad stage were recorded for each specimen. Significant differences were found in sex ratio in all months sampled with a clear predominance of females. Mature females were found year-around, but two reproductive peaks were identified during the periods October-December and April-June. The mean catch total length size (MCS) for females and males was 148.00mm and 122.54mm, respectively. The mean size at maturity (LT50%) was 129.34mm for females and 97.77mm for males. MCS was always above LT50% for both sexes. Considering the large reduction in fishing effort in the Colombian Caribbean Sea over the last years, we could expect that the shrimp population is in a rebuilding process or perhaps it may be already restored.

El camarón de aguas someras, es uno de los recursos de mayor importancia socioeconómica en la región Caribe. La falta de información biológica pesquera, es una preocupación de los administradores pesqueros. Por tanto, el presente estudio tiene como objetivo conocer la época reproductiva, la estructura de tallas y la talla media de madurez del camarón de aguas someras (Farfantepenaeus notialis) como insumo para la ordenación y manejo pesquero en el Caribe colombiano. El estudio se llevó a cabo desde junio del 2012 hasta mayo del 2013 en el Caribe colombiano. Se recolectaron 5 356 individuos, los cuales fueron identificados, clasificados y conservados para su análisis en el laboratorio, donde se analizaron las muestras tomando datos de talla, peso, sexo y estadio gonadal. Se encontraron diferencias significativas en la razón de sexo durante todos los meses muestreados, con una mayor proporción de hembras. Se presentaron hembras maduras durante todo el año, pero con dos picos reproductivos de máximo desove, uno entre octubre y diciembre y el otro entre abril y junio. La talla media de captura (TMC) durante todo el muestreo para las hembras fue de 148.0mm de longitud total (LT) y para los machos fue de 122.5mm LT. La talla media de madurez (LT50%) para las hembras y machos fue de 129.34mm LT y 97.77mm LT, respectivamente. La TMC siempre fue mayor que la LT50% para ambos sexos. Debido a la gran disminución del esfuerzo pesquero en el Caribe colombiano durante los últimos 10 años, se espera que este recurso se encuentre en una fase de recuperación o ya esté recuperado.

Efecto de microorganismos con potencial probiótico en la calidad del agua y el crecimiento de camarón Litopenaeus vannamei (Decapoda: Penaeidae) en cultivo intensivo / Microorganisms effect with probiotic potential in water quality and growth of the shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei (Decapoda: Penaeidae) in intensive culture

The use of probiotics has gained acceptance in aquaculture, particularly in maintaining water quality and enhancing growth in organisms. This study analyzed the effect of the commercial (EM TM, Japan) natural product composed by (Rhodopseudomonas palustris, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus casei and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) added to the water, in order to determine its effect in water quality, sediment and growth of L. vannamei under intensive culture. The evaluation included three treatments with a weekly addition of EM: i) tanks without probiotics (C), ii) tanks with a dose of 4L/ha (EM1) and iii) tanks with a dose of 10L/ha (EM2). The treatment C was carried out three times, while treatments EM1 and EM2 were carried out four times. A total of 4 350 shrimps were measured for total length and weight, to calculate total and porcentual weight gain, daily weight gain, specific growth rate (TCE), and food conversion factor (FCA); besides, the survival rate was estimated. The use of probiotics allowed a shorter harvest time in treatments EM1 (90d) and EM2 (105d) with relation to the treatment C (120d). Treatments EM1 and EM2 were within the recommended intervals for culture, with respect to treatment C. The use of probiotic bacteria significantly regulated pH (EM1, 8.03±0.33; EM2, 7.77±0.22; C, 9.08±0.35) and reduced nitrate concentration (EM1, 0.64±0.25mg/L; EM2, 0.39±0.26mg/L; C, 0.71mg/L). Water pH mostly explained the variance with respect to the treatments. Treatment EM2 presented the greatest removal of organic matter (1.77±0.45%), whereas the contents of extractable phosphorus increased significantly in treatment EM1 with 21.6±7.99mg/kg and in treatment EM2 with 21.6±8.45mg/kg with control relation (14.3±5.47). The shrimp growth was influenced by dissolved oxygen, salinity and pH in the sediment, establishing that salinity was the most important variable in the weight with a negative association. Treatment EM1 recorded an improved TCE (2.69±0.35%/d) and FCA (1.46±0.20) with relation to the control treatment (TCE, 1.88±0.25%/d; FCA, 2.13±0.48). Survival was significantly greater in treatments containing probiotics with 61±8.76% and 60±10.5% for EM1 and EM2, respectively. This study indicated the positive effect obtained with the use of this commercial probiotic, to improve culture conditions and growth parameters in an intensive culture of L. vannamei.

Los probióticos han ganado aceptación en la acuicultura para mantener la calidad del agua y aumentar el crecimiento de los organismos. En este estudio se analizó el efecto de una mezcla comercial de microorganismos eficientes (EM) (Rhodopseudomonas palustris, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus casei y Saccharomyces cerevisiae) sobre la calidad del agua, sedimento y el crecimiento en un cultivo intensivo de camarón L. vannamei. La evaluación consistió en tres tratamientos: i) estanques sin EM (C), ii) estanques con dosis de 4L/ha (EM1) y iii) estanques con dosis de 10L/ha (EM2). Los resultados demostraron menor tiempo de cosecha en los tratamientos EM1 (90d) y EM2 (105d). Los tratamientos EM1 y EM2 mantuvieron significativamente regulados los valores del pH (EM1, 8.03±0.33; EM2, 7.77±0.22) y redujeron las concentraciones de nitrato (EM1, 0.64±0.25mg/L; EM2, 0.39±0.26mg/L). El tratamiento EM2 presentó la mayor remoción de materia orgánica (1.77±0.45%). El tratamiento EM1 mejoró la TCE (2.69±0.35%/d) y FCA (1.46±0.20). Los tratamientos EM1 y EM2 presentaron mayor supervivencia con 61±8.76% y 60±10.5%, respectivamente. Este estudio demostró el efecto benéfico del uso de la mezcla comercial en los parámetros ambientales y de crecimiento en un cultivo intensivo de L. vannamei.

Sustainability of capture of fish bycatch in the prawn trawling in northeastern Brazil

The prawn fishery produces more discards than any other type of catch and captures a large quantity of immature individuals. This research aimed to assess the sustainability of capture of fish bycatch in prawn trawling. Each species was assessed according to two groups of criteria: (1) their relative vulnerability to capture by trawl and mortality due to this fishery (2) recovery capacity of the specie after a possible collapse of the population. Within each group, each species was ranked (1-3), being 1 the highest value, meaning the species is highly susceptible to capture or has a low resilience. A total of 8,894 individuals were caught, belonging to 28 families. The species with capture least sustainable were Stellifer rastrifer and Isopisthus parvipinnis. These latter species are highly susceptible since they are either benthic or demersal, and their diet may include benthic organism. Chirocentrodon bleekerianus and Anchoa tricolor were the most likely fishes to be sustainable since they are pelagic, they are least susceptible to capture by trawls, and also have a greater capacity to recover, as most individuals have bred before capture. Due to the fishery's multi-specific nature, it is difficult to implement mitigation measures for specific species. Thus, the creation of fishing exclusion zones should be considered as the most appropriate management measure.

A pesca de arrasto de camarão produz mais descarte do que qualquer outra pescaria e captura uma grande quantidade de indivíduos imaturos. Esta pesquisa visa determinar a sustentabilidade da captura da ictiofauna acompanhante na pesca de arrasto de camarão. Cada espécie foi analisada de acordo com dois grupos de critérios: (1) vulnerabilidade à captura pela rede de arrasto e mortalidade ocasionada por esta pescaria; e (2) capacidade de recuperação da população para minimizar. Dentro de cada critério as espécies foram classificadas de 1 a 3, sendo 1 o valor mais alto, indicando que a espécie é altamente susceptível à captura ou tem baixa capacidade de recuperação. Um total de 8.894 indivíduos foram capturados, pertencendo a 28 famílias. As espécies com captura menos sustentável foram Stellifer rastrifer e Isopisthus parvipinnis. Estas espécies são altamente susceptíveis, pois são bentônicas ou demersais e suas dietas incluem organismos bentônicos. Chirocentrodon bleekerianus e Anchoa tricolor foram as espécies que apresentaram a captura mais sustentável. Por serem pelágicas, são menos susceptíveis à captura por arrastos de fundo, além disto, apresentaram uma grande capacidade de recuperação, pois a maior parte dos indivíduos capturados encontrava-se acima do seu tamanho de primeira maturação sexual. Devido à natureza multiespecífica da pescaria é difícil implementar medidas mitigatórias específicas. Assim, a criação de zona de exclusão de pesca deve ser considerada como a medida de manejo mais adequada.

Phytoplanktonic composition of three cultivation systems used in Litopenaeus vannamei (BOONE, 1931) marine shrimp farms / Composição fitoplanctônica em três sistemas de cultivo do camarão marinho Litopenaeus vannamei (BOONE, 1931)

The aim of this work is to assess the different compositions of phytoplankton in three cultivation systems of marine shrimps Litopenaeus vannamei (BOONE, 1931), denominated as organic, intensive and semi intensive. The samples were done fortnightly, when phytoplankton was collected by a net for phytoplankton, 65 µm mesh, being then filtrated in a total volume of water of 100 L, and preserved in formaldehyde solution at 4% and identified according to the methodology of Cordeiro et al. (1997). The results show that the densities of Diatoms were of 16.65, 10.47 and 7.57 cel. 103 mL-1 for the organic, intensive and semi intensive cultivations, respectively. As for cyanobacteria, the average figures were 42.06 cel. 103 mL-1 for semi intensive 17.27 cel. 103 mL-1, in the intensive cultivation and 6.11 cel. 103 mL-1 for the organic cultivation system. The dinoflagellates had the highest cellular density in the phytoplankton community analyzed with 61.9 cel. 103 mL-1 in the intensive cultivation, 0.33 and 0.03 cel. 103 mL-1 for both semi intensive and organic cultivation systems respectively. Euglenas presented the results of 4.98 and 14.86 cel. 103 mL-1 only for semi intensive and intensive cultivations. It was then concluded that all cultivations presented average rates below recommended for such studied systems.

Conduziu-se esse trabalho com o objetivo de avaliar as diferentes composições fitoplanctônicas em três sistemas de cultivo para o camarão marinho Litopenaeus vannamei (BOONE, 1931), denominados de orgânico, intensivo e semiintensivo. As amostragens foram realizadas quinzenalmente, onde o fitoplâncton foi coletado através de uma rede de plâncton, com malha de 65 µm, sendo filtrado um volume de água total de 100 litros, que foram preservadas em solução de formol a 4% e identificadas segundo a metodologia de Cordeiro et al. (1997). Os resultados mostram que as densidades de diatomáceas foram de 16,65; 10,47 e 7,57 cel. 103 mL-1, respectivamente, para os cultivos orgânico, intensivo e semi-intensivo. Para as cianofíceas as médias foram 42,06 cel. 103 mL-1 no semi-intensivo, 17,27 cel. 103 mL-1 intensivo e 6,11 cel. 103 mL-1no sistema orgânico de criação. Os dinoflagelados obtiveram a maior densidade celular dentre a comunidade fitoplanctônica analisada de 61,9 cel. 103 mL-1 no cultivo intensivo, 0,33 e 0,03 cel. 103 mL-1 para o semi-intensivo e orgânico, respectivamente. As euglenas apresentaram densidades apenas para os cultivos semi-intensivo e intensivo de 4,98 e 14,86 cel. 103 mL-1. Conclui-se que as densidades fitoplantônicas em todos os cultivos estiveram abaixo daquelas recomendadas para os sistemas estudados.

Artificial family selection based on growth rate in cultivated lines of Litopenaeus vannamei (Decapoda, Penaeidae) from Venezuela

We investigated the effects of family selection on the growth rates of four genetic lines of Litopenaeus vannamei, the Pacific white shrimp, from Venezuela. The mean family weight at selection was 16.79 g and the mean growth rate was 0.169 g d-1 at a mean age of 138 days. The mean growth rates per generation were 0.141 g d-1 for the parental generation (P0), 0.173 g d-1 for the F1 and 0.191 g d-1 for the F2. Survival varied from 83.3 percent to 94.4%. There were statistically significant differences between lines, with lines B and C, growing at higher temperatures and lower salinities, showing the fastest growth. Regression analysis between growth rate and age for each genetic line showed high r² values, but smaller than those shown between growth rate and generation. The mean heritability (h²) estimated for growth rate was 0.25 ± 0.04, with line per generation values ranging from 0.18 to 0.38. The mean heritability for growth rate per line showed some variation but there was no correlation between heritability and growth rate. Females showed a greater gain in growth rate per generation than males due to their faster growth when they were older. This study shows the high potential of these L. vannamei populations for the future of shrimp culture in the Americas.

Growth, mortality and migratory pattern of white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei, Crustacea, Penaeidae) in the Carretas-Pereyra coastal lagoon system, Mexico

The growth, mortality and migration pattern of the population of Litopenaeus vannamei Boone 1931 in the Carretas-Pereyra coastal lagoon system, Mexico, were studied. The shrimp spatial distribution and abundance were analyzed in relation to salinity, water temperature, and substrate. A total of 2 669 shrimps was collected at 22 sites sampled monthly from March 2004 to August 2005. Juvenile shrimps of L. vannamei were present in the coastal lagoon system throughout the year, reaching densities from 0.001 to 0.302 ind/m². The estimated daily growth rate was 0.06 to 0.27 mm carapace length (CL). No significant seasonal differences were appreciated. Weekly total mortality (Z) was between 0.04 and 0.34. Recruits, juveniles and sub-adults displayed a bimodal distributional pattern regulated by the prevailing conditions during the dry season. The peak abundance of juvenile stages occurred in December-January and March-May. The abundance presented an inverse correlation with salinity (r=-0.42; p<0.05) and a positive correlation (r=0.44; p<0.05) with silt content. No clear correlation was distinguished for emigration size with season of the year or water temperature. Rev. Biol. Trop. 56 (2): 523-533. Epub 2008 June 30.

Se estudió el crecimiento, la mortalidad y el patrón de migración del camarón Litopenaeus vannamei Boone 1931 en el sistema lagunar costero Carretas Pereyra, México. La distribución espacial y la abundancia fueron analizadas con relación a la salinidad, temperatura y substrato. De marzo de 2004 a agosto de 2005 se recolectó un total de 2669 camarones con un muestreo mensual en 22 sitios. Los jóvenes se hallaron todo el año en el sistema lagunar costero, con densidades entre 0.001 y 0.302 ind/m². La tasa de crecimiento diaria fue de 0.06 a 0.27 mm longitud del cefalotórax (CL) y no se apreciaron diferencias significativas entre estaciones. La mortalidad total (Z) semanal estuvo entre 0.04 y 0.34. Reclutas, jóvenes y subadultos presentan un patrón de distribución bimodal regulado por las condiciones prevalecientes durante la estación de estío. Los valores máximos de abundancia de los estadios juveniles se presentan en diciembre-enero y marzo-mayo. La abundancia presentó una correlación significativa inversa con la salinidad (r=-0.42; p<0.05) y positiva (r=0.44; p<0.05) con el contenido de limo. No se distinguió una clara correlación entre la talla de emigración, la estación del año y la temperatura del agua.

Associações entre as biomassas de peixes Sciaenidae (Teleostei: Perciformes) e de camarões Penaeoidea (Decapoda: Dendrobranchiata) no litoral norte do Estado de São Paulo / Relationships among Sciaenidae fish (Teleostei: Perciformes) and Penaeoidea shrimp (Decapoda: Dendrobranchiata) biomass from the north coast of São Paulo State, Brazil

Visando analisar as associações entre as biomassas de peixes Sciaenidae e de camarões Penaeoidea, foram feitas amostragens com barco de arrasto nas quatro estações do ano de 2001, em um gradiente de profundidade, nas regiões de Ubatuba, Caraguatatuba e São Sebastião. Em cada transecto, foram obtidas amostras de água e de sedimento. As hipóteses de que os fatores ambientais foram diferentes entre as estações do ano e profundidades foram testadas por ANOVAs. A dependência estatística entre as biomassas de peixes (variável resposta) e as biomassas de camarões (covariável) nas três regiões, foi testada por um modelo de ANCOVA. Para quantificar as relações entre as biomassas de cada espécie foi utilizada a CCA. A importância das estações do ano e das regiões no resultado da CCA foi avaliada pelo teste de Kruskal-Wallis e da profundidade pelo teste de Spearman. Nas estações do ano, as temperaturas e salinidades foram significativamente diferentes, o que não ocorreu com matéria orgânica (MO) e o diâmetro médio do sedimento (phi = fi). Foram amostrados 378.618 g de peixes e 79.338 g de camarões, com maiores capturas no inverno e nas menores profundidades. Em Caraguatatuba foram coletadas as maiores biomassas de ambos os grupos e a correlação entre as capturas de peixes e de camarões foi negativa. Já nas demais regiões, a correlação foi positiva. Assim, os dados de Caraguatatuba foram retirados do modelo final da ANCOVA, onde 47 por cento da variabilidade na biomassa dos peixes Sciaenidae pôde ser explicada pela presença dos camarões Penaeoidea. Xiphopenaeus kroyeri foi o único fator importante na distribuição de Sciaenidae no eixo 1, enquanto o eixo 2 evidenciou indiretamente o gradiente de profundidade. Os resultados sugerem que, possivelmente, muitas espécies de peixes busquem as mesmas áreas de ocorrência dos camarões em função dos fatores abióticos ou para utilizá-los como recurso alimentar.

To study the relationships among Sciaenidae fish and Penaeoidea shrimp biomass, fieldwork was carried out in the north coast of São Paulo state, Brazil, during the four seasons of 2001. Samples were collected in transects from different depths at Ubatuba, Caraguatatuba, and São Sebastião cities. Water and sediment were collected from each transect. The hypotheses that the environmental factors were different among the seasons and depths were tested by ANOVAs. The statistical dependence among the biomasses of fishes (response variable) and the biomasses of shrimps (covariable) in the three sections was tested by an ANCOVA model. CCA was used to quantify the relationships among each species' biomass. The seasons and sections important at the CCA results were evaluated by Kruskal-Wallis test and depth by Spearman's test. The temperatures and salinities were significantly different among seasons but organic matter and phi were not. A total of 378,618 g of fish and 79,338 g of shrimp were collected and the majority was captured during the winter and in shallow transects. The greatest biomass of both groups was captured at Caraguatatuba and the correlation between fish and shrimp captures was negative. A positive correlation was found in the other areas. Therefore, data from Caraguatatuba was removed from the final ANCOVA model, in which 47 percent of Sciaenidae biomass variability was explained by the presence of Penaeoidea shrimps. Xiphopenaeus kroyeri was the only important factor in Sciaenidae distribution in the axis 1, while axis 2 indirectly evidenced the depth gradient. The results suggest that many fish species search for the same areas where shrimp occurs, related to abiotic factors, and use them as food resource.

Characterization and experimental infection of Flexibacter maritimus (Wakabayashi et al. 1986) in hatcheries of post-larvae of Litopenaeus vannamei Boone, 1931

A preliminary study to characterize filamentous bacteria, whose presence is related to high mortality of Litopenaeus vannamei larvae cultured in Santa Catarina State, Brazil, is reported. The extract of infected larvae was diluted in different concentrations, cultured in marine agar (DifcoTM, Marine Agar 2216) and incubated at 30 °C for 48 hours. The biochemical characterization included hydrolytic reactions of starch, gelatin and tyrosine, growth in TCBS agar, growth in 0 and 37‰ salinity, pigment production in tyrosine agar, production of H2S, nitrate reduction, congo red reaction, oxidase and catalase. The isolated bacteria belong to the species Flexibacter maritimus, Gram-negative bacilli of 0.4-0.5 µm width and 15 µm length. Experiments were carried out on pathogenicity of F. maritimus in post-larvae of L. vannamei. Survival and symptoms in L. vannamei post-larvae 24 hours after inoculation with F. maritimus and its growth in marine agar were evaluated. Mortality was detected around 92,5 percent as well as symptoms like melanized lesions in several parts of body, discolouration of gills, bad formation of appendages and of the last abdominal segment, low motility and feeding reduction. The experimental infection results suggested that isolated bacteria of the genus Flexibacter are pathogenic to the shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei post-larvae.

Neste trabalho, relata-se um estudo preliminar para caracterizar bactérias filamentosas associadas a elevadas mortalidades de larvas e pós-larvas cultivadas no Estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil. Um extrato de larvas infectadas foi diluído em diferentes concentrações, cultivado em Agar Marine (DifcoTM, Marine Agar 2216) e incubado a 30° C por 48 horas. A caracterização bioquímica inclui reações de amido, gelatina e tirosesine, crescimento em Agar TCBS,crescimento a 0 e 37‰ de salinidade, produção de pigmentos em Agar Tirosine, produção de H2S, redução de nitrato, reação vermelho congo, oxidase e catalase. A bactéria isolada apresentou características de Flexibacter maritimus, um bacilo Gram negativo de 0,4-0,5 µm de largura e 15 µm de comprimento. Os experimentos foram realizados sobre a patogenicidade de F. Maritimus, em pós-larvas de L. vannamei. Foram avaliados a sobrevivência e os sintomas das pós-larvas 24 horas após a inoculação com F. Maritimus, além do seu crescimento em Agar Marine. Foram encontradas mortalidades de 92,5 por cento e sintomas próprios da enfermidade, tais como lesões melanizadas em várias partes do corpo, descoloração das brânquias e diminuição da motilidade e da alimentação. Com base nos resultados da infecção experimental, pode se concluir que a bactéria isolada do gênero Flexibacter é patogênica para pós-larvas de L. vannamei.

Reproductive pattern of the South American endemic shrimp Artemesia longinaris (Decapoda: Penaeoidea), off São Paulo State, Brazil

Sexual maturity, temporal reproductive pattern, and recruitment of juveniles were examined for the penaeoid shrimp Artemesia longinaris sampled for five and a half years in a tropical locality off the coast of São Paulo (23º S), Brazil. Monthly samples were taken from January 1998 to June 2003 at depths between 5 and 45 m. Ovarian maturity was used to examine breeding in adult females. Recruitment was defined as the percentage of juveniles of the total number of individuals in each month and season. A total of 10 288 females and 5 551 males were collected. Estimated sizes (carapace length) at the onset of sexual maturity were 11.0 mm and 13.4mm for males and females, respectively. Over the five and a half years, females with ripe gonads were found in every season, with the highest percentages in summer (January-March). Juvenile shrimps occurred year-round. These results suggest a continuous reproduction of A. longinaris with temperature acting as an environmentalstimulus for the duration of the ovary development cycle. These data and the hypothesis of the intrusion ofthe South Atlantic Central Water mass, which lowered water temperature and raised plankton production, suggestthat the end of spring and the beginning of summer were the principal reproductive months. The classicalparadigm of continuous reproduction at lower latitudes, with increased seasonality of breeding period at higherlatitudes seems to apply to this species.

El objetivo del presente trabajo fue el estudio de la madurez sexual, la reproducción temporal y el reclutamientodel camarón Artemesia longinaris, en el litoral del estado de São Paulo (23ºS), Brasil. El material fue recolectadomensualmente entre enero 1998 y junio 2003, hasta una profundidad de 45 m. La periodicidad de la madurez gonadalfue verificada en las hembras adultas. El reclutamiento se definió como porcentaje de camarones inmaduros sobre el total de individuos en cada mes y estación. Se obtuvo un total de 10 288 hembras y 5 551 machos. Las tallas dela madurez gonadal estimadas fueron 11.0 mm (machos) y 13.4 mm (hembras). En los cinco años y medio del estudio, el verano (enero-marzo) siempre tuvo mayor porcentaje dehembras con gónadas maduras. En la mayoría de los meses, se recolectaron camarones inmaduros. Estos resultadossugieren que A. longinaris se reproduce en forma continua, y que la temperatura es el estimulo ambiental para la duracióndel desarrollo gonadal. Eso es evidente en los periodos con mayor desarrollo gonadal (primavera y verano) enaguas más frías y mejor oferta de alimento ofrecido por la penetración de las Aguas Centrales del Atlántico Sur y por el aumento en la productividad planctónica. Para este camarónse aplica el paradigma del efecto latitudinal en la reproducciónde especies marinas, donde en regiones tropicales se observa una continuidad en el desarrollo gonadal y en las zonas templado-frías una estacionalidad reproductiva.

Growth and mortalities of the pink-shrimp Farfantepenaeus brasiliensis Latreille, 1970 and F. paulensis Pérez-Farfante 1967 in Southeast Brazil

De Julho de 1999 a Julho de 2001, foram coletados dados das pescarias comerciais do camarão-rosa Farfantepenaeus brasiliensis Latreille, 1970 e F. paulensis Pérez-Farfante, 1967, relativos à frota pesqueira de arrasto, sediada em Santos (SP). Estimativas dos parâmetros de crescimento e de mortalidades foram calculadas. Farafantepenaeus brasiliensis e F. paulensis são espécies de crescimento rápido e vida curta, com longevidade de 2 anos (L¥ = 29,0 cm e k = 1,24 ano-1 para F. brasiliensis; L¥ = 27,5 cm e k = 1,34 ano-1 para F. paulensis). As fêmeas atingem tamanhos maiores que os machos para ambas espécies. As mortalidades naturais foram estimadas em M = 1,80 ano-1 e 1,90 ano-1 e as mortalidades por pesca F = 4,7 ano-1 e 6,8 ano-1 para F. brasiliensis e F. paulensis, respectivamente. As taxas de sobrevivência foram calculadas em S = 0,15% para F. brasilensis e S = 0,02% para F. paulensis, valores usualmente baixos para camarões.

Limnology of Kharland (saline) ponds of Ratnagiri, Maharashtra in relation to prawn culture potential.

The coastal saline soils, Kharlands, have great potential for their use in aquaculture. This study has been taken up to understand the limnology of the ponds in Kharland area for assessing their prawn culture potential. This study was carried out during September, 1999 to August, 2001. Each Kharland pond has an area of 0.045 hectare. During the study, depth of pond water was 47.7 to 120.0 cm, temperature varied from 25.7 to 34.5 degrees C; transparency from nil to 65.0 cm; specific conductivity from 1.78 to 94.5 microS.cm(-1); total dissolved solids from 0.89 to 27.55 ppt; pH 5.42 to 8.25; dissolved oxygen 1.6 to 8 mg.l(-1); free carbon dioxide 10.00 to 44.00 mg.l(-1); total alkalinity 5.00 to 142.00 mg.l(-1); salinity 0.45 to 39.55 ppt; total hardness 245.00 to 5945.00; calcium 56.05 to 1827.6; magnesium 110.74 to 4507.75 mg.l(-1); dissolved organic matter 1.45 to 9.68 mg.l(-1); ammonia 1.00-8.00 microg.l(-1); nitrite nil to 20.00 micro l(-1) and nitrate 7.5 to 17.5 microg.l(-1). These Kharland ponds are unique in physio-chemical characteristics during their seasonal cycle. From July to October, these ponds have nearly freshwater while from November to May pond water becomes saline. Thus, there is a great possibility of taking up monoculture of both the freshwater and brackish water prawns as well as polyculture of prawns and fishes in the Kharland ponds.