Citizen science as a tool for understanding the silent dispersion of toadfish Opsanus beta (Goode and Bean, 1880).

Citizen science is an excellent tool in studies of the spatial distribution of non-native species. In Brazil, Opsanus beta has recently been introduced. Studies indicate the occurrence of this species in five estuaries off the Brazilian coast (Guanabara Bay, Sepetiba Bay, Santos Bay, Paranaguá Estuarine Complex and Guaratuba Bay). The present study aims to understand the dispersion of this species on the Brazilian coast through citizen science. Between January and May 2021, information about O. beta was weekly posted in 32 recreational fishing Facebook groups. Sixty-five fishers reported catches of O. beta in estuaries (Guanabara Bay, Sepetiba Bay, Santos Bay and Paranaguá Estuarine Complex). In addition, there were reports from other shallow areas outside adjacent estuaries (Bertioga and Peruíbe, in Sao Paulo State) and the first occurrence record for Laguna (Santa Catarina State), a southern estuarine zone (28° 29' 45″ S to 48° 45' 36″ W). In four estuaries along the Brazilian coast where O. beta was recorded, there are internal ports that trade with countries from the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea (species original range), indicating ballast water as a possible introduction route. In Laguna, the introduction may have occurred by maritime cabotage services. The reproductive capacity, the aquarists' interest, the absence of introduction policies aimed at this species and the cabotage fleet transportation may be factors that help further extend the dispersal of O. beta on the Brazilian coast.

Diet of three juvenile fish species of the coastal zone of a Southwest Atlantic beach, Brazil

Surf zones are associated with a shelter area, nursery and feeding for several species of fish. In this study, the dietary habits of three species of fish with demersal habits (Gulf kingcroakerMenticirrhu gracilis, Whitesea catfishGenidens barbusand Barbu Polydacytlus virginicus), were verified in the surf zone area of an active urban beach of Baixada Santista, concerning structure in size, day and night abundances and overlapping diets. Atotal of 617 fish were analyzed, of which 362 were 194 were G. barbusand 61 were P. virginicus. Stomach contents, represented in Relative Importance Index diagrams, showed that the bivalve Donax gemmulais the most important food item for M. gracilis, scales of Teleostei for G. barbusand Euphausiacea for P. virginicus. In order to evaluate the similarity of the diets, the Macarthur & Levins indices and a cluster analysis with the Bray-Curtis distance were applied revealing that the diet is 44% different between G. barbusand M. gracilis, 5% between G. barbusand P. virginicusand of 84% between M. gracilisand P. virginicus. Anthropogenic waste like plastic, nylon, metal pieces, were only occasionaly observed.(AU)

Morphometrics of juvenile white shrimp in Santos (SP, Brazil): an Atlantic stressed estuary / Morfometria de juvenis do camarão-branco em Santos (SP, Brasil): um estuário impactado do Atlântico

Shrimps are one of the worlds most valuable fishing resources, with the Penaeidae family having the greatest economic importance. In the southwest Atlantic the white shrimp Litopenaeus schmitti plays an important socioeconomic role for small-scale fisheries, and juveniles are targeted as live bait for recreational fisheries. This study was carried out monthly along two periods (May/2009-January/2010 and March/2011-March/2015) at Santos estuary and aimed to investigate the relationship between morphometric and sex of the early development stages of Litopenaeus schmitti. A total of 6,978 individuals were caught and measured, with no differences (p >0.1) between sexes shown regarding total length or weight. Differences between males and females were found for Total length (TL) x Carapace length (CL) and TL x Total weight (TW) and negative allometries (b<3) were found for all relationships. The results indicate that morphometric differences among sexes seem to be more associated with total length, suggesting that TL could be a more appropriate body measurement to compare specimens of L. schmitti, at least when the analysis includes juveniles. The presence of L. schmitti specimens all year long inside the estuary reinforces the idea of a continuous reproductive cycle with peak periods. Both information comes to fulfill part of the lack of knowledge regarding this species estuarine phases.(AU)

Camarões são um dos mais valiosos recursos pesqueiros, com a família Penaeidae tendo a maior importância econômica. No Atlântico sudoeste o camarão-branco Litopenaeus schimittidesempenha um papel socioeconômico importante à pesca artesanal, e os juvenis são visados para utilização como isca-viva para pesca amadora. Este estudo foi conduzido mensalmente durante dois períodos (maio/2009-janeiro/2010 e março/2011-maio/2015) no estuário de Santos e visou investigar as relações entre morfometria e sexos dos estágios iniciais de desenvolvimento do Litopenaeus schmitti. Um total de 6.978 indivíduos foram capturados e medidos, mas no que diz respeito ao comprimento e peso total não foram encontradas diferenças (p >0,1) entre os sexos. Diferenças entre machos e fêmeas foram encontradas para as relações comprimento total (CT) x comprimento da carapaça (CC) e CT x peso total (PT) e foi observada alometria negativa (b<3) para todas as relações. Os resultados indicam que as diferenças morfométricas entre os sexos parecem estar mais associadas com o comprimento total, sugerindo que o CT seja uma medida corporal mais apropriada para comparar indivíduos de L. schmitti, ao menos quando a análise incluir juvenis. A presença de indivíduos de L. schimitti dentro do estuário ao longo de todo ano reforça a ideia de um ciclo reprodutivo contínuo com períodos de pico reprodutivo. Ambas as informações ajudam a suprir parte da lacuna de informações a respeito das fases estuarinas desta espécie.(AU)

Morphometrics of juvenile white shrimp in Santos (SP, Brazil): an Atlantic stressed estuary / Morfometria de juvenis do camarão-branco em Santos (SP, Brasil): um estuário impactado do Atlântico

Shrimps are one of the world’s most valuable fishing resources, with the Penaeidae family having the greatest economic importance. In the southwest Atlantic the white shrimp Litopenaeus schmitti plays an important socioeconomic role for small-scale fisheries, and juveniles are targeted as live bait for recreational fisheries. This study was carried out monthly along two periods (May/2009-January/2010 and March/2011-March/2015) at Santos estuary and aimed to investigate the relationship between morphometric and sex of the early development stages of Litopenaeus schmitti. A total of 6,978 individuals were caught and measured, with no differences (p >0.1) between sexes shown regarding total length or weight. Differences between males and females were found for Total length (TL) x Carapace length (CL) and TL x Total weight (TW) and negative allometries (b<3) were found for all relationships. The results indicate that morphometric differences among sexes seem to be more associated with total length, suggesting that TL could be a more appropriate body measurement to compare specimens of L. schmitti, at least when the analysis includes juveniles. The presence of L. schmitti specimens all year long inside the estuary reinforces the idea of a continuous reproductive cycle with peak periods. Both information comes to fulfill part of the lack of knowledge regarding this species estuarine phases.

Camarões são um dos mais valiosos recursos pesqueiros, com a família Penaeidae tendo a maior importância econômica. No Atlântico sudoeste o camarão-branco Litopenaeus schimittidesempenha um papel socioeconômico importante à pesca artesanal, e os juvenis são visados para utilização como isca-viva para pesca amadora. Este estudo foi conduzido mensalmente durante dois períodos (maio/2009-janeiro/2010 e março/2011-maio/2015) no estuário de Santos e visou investigar as relações entre morfometria e sexos dos estágios iniciais de desenvolvimento do Litopenaeus schmitti. Um total de 6.978 indivíduos foram capturados e medidos, mas no que diz respeito ao comprimento e peso total não foram encontradas diferenças (p >0,1) entre os sexos. Diferenças entre machos e fêmeas foram encontradas para as relações comprimento total (CT) x comprimento da carapaça (CC) e CT x peso total (PT) e foi observada alometria negativa (b<3) para todas as relações. Os resultados indicam que as diferenças morfométricas entre os sexos parecem estar mais associadas com o comprimento total, sugerindo que o CT seja uma medida corporal mais apropriada para comparar indivíduos de L. schmitti, ao menos quando a análise incluir juvenis. A presença de indivíduos de L. schimitti dentro do estuário ao longo de todo ano reforça a ideia de um ciclo reprodutivo contínuo com períodos de pico reprodutivo. Ambas as informações ajudam a suprir parte da lacuna de informações a respeito das fases estuarinas desta espécie.

Life History Parameters of Genypterus brasiliensis (Teleostei: Ophidiidae), an Endemic Fisheries Resource of the Southwestern Atlantic.

Genypterus brasiliensis, a demersal fish of large size (1.3 m of total length), occurs in the southwest Atlantic (23 to 38oS) and well appreciated due to the quality of its flesh. It was analyzed through longline and trawl fisheries, and the average length and weight of 724 specimens were significantly different between them, with the biggest and heaviest specimens caught by the former. The weight-length relationships were significantly different based upon sex: females Wt=4x10-7Lt3.3799; r2=0.97; n=262; p<0.001, and males: Wt=4x10-7Lt3.3886; r2=0.95; n=190; p<0.001. Using the otoliths readings for 153 specimens (APE of 2% and CV of 4.2%), the growth parameters estimates reveal statistical differences between sexes (p=0.05; r2=0.889). The fisheries were composed of individuals aged 1 to 13 (females) and 1 to 14 years old (males), with ring formation in late spring. The back calculated parameters (VBGF) were: Loo=1,452.38 mm, K=0.0996, t0=-0.2757 yr-1 (females) and Loo=983.07 mm, K=0.155, t0=-0.236 yr-1 (males), and longevity as 29.8 and 19.1 years old, respectively. The low biological production allied to the slow growth and a late complete maturation and its endemism, allow classify G. brasiliensis as a vulnerable resource, jeopardizing a sustainable fishery. Until reliable quantitative biological data are available, precautionary management must be considered.

The southernmost records of Brotula barbata (Bloch & Schneider 1801) (Ophidiiformes: Ophidiidae) in the western Atlantic Ocean.

The present study reports the occurrence of the bearded brotula, Brotula barbata, in four different localities off southern Brazil. These records extend the species' known distribution limit southwards, beyond Rio de Janeiro, to the state of Rio Grande do Sul (30° 50' S). Morphometric and meristic data for the specimens reported herein are provided and discussed.

Molecular evidence of two cryptic species of Stramonita (Mollusca, Muricidae) in the southeastern Atlantic coast of Brazil.

Snails of the genus Stramonita are commonly found in the rocky intertidal habitat of the western Atlantic Ocean coast. They belong to a monophyletic taxon that occurs along the tropical and warm-temperate Atlantic and eastern Pacific rocky shores. This genus comprises different valid species and members of the S. haemastoma complex. In the present study, samples of Stramonita were collected from three different regions of southeastern Brazil. Partial sequences of two mitochondrial genes, COI and 16S rRNA, were used to compare nucleotides sequences between Stramonita specimens. Levels of nucleotide divergence greater than 2% across the three sampled regions were used for differentiation at the species level. One of the identified species was S. brasiliensis, which has recently been described by molecular analysis; the other species may represent S. haemastoma, not yet described in the southeastern Brazilian coast.

The Path towards Endangered Species: Prehistoric Fisheries in Southeastern Brazil.

Brazilian shellmounds are archaeological sites with a high concentration of marine faunal remains. There are more than 2000 sites along the coast of Brazil that range in age from 8,720 to 985 cal BP. Here, we studied the ichthyoarchaeological remains (i.e., cranial/postcranial bones, otoliths, and teeth, among others) at 13 shellmounds on the southern coast of the state of Rio de Janeiro, which are located in coastal landscapes, including a sandy plain with coastal lagoons, rocky islands, islets and rocky bays. We identified patterns of similarity between shellmounds based on fish diversity, the ages of the assemblages, littoral geomorphology and prehistoric fisheries. Our new radiocarbon dating, based on otolith samples, was used for fishery characterization over time. A taxonomical study of the ichthyoarchaeological remains includes a diversity of 97 marine species, representing 37% of all modern species (i.e., 265 spp.) that have been documented along the coast of Rio de Janeiro state. This high fish diversity recovered from the shellmounds is clear evidence of well-developed prehistoric fishery activity that targeted sharks, rays and finfishes in a productive area influenced by coastal marine upwelling. The presence of adult and neonate shark, especially oceanic species, is here interpreted as evidence of prehistoric fisheries capacity for exploitation and possibly overexploitation in nursery areas. Various tools and strategies were used to capture finfish in seasonal fisheries, over rocky reef bottoms and in sandy littoral environments. Massive catches of whitemouth croaker, main target dermersal species of South Atlantic coast, show evidence of a reduction in body size of approximately 28% compared with modern fisheries. Fishery activity involving vulnerable species, especially in nursery areas, could mark the beginning of fish depletion along the southeastern Brazilian coast and the collapse of natural fish populations.

Captura de siris pela comunidade da Vila dos Pescadores (Cubatão) no Estuário de Santos-São Vicente (SP) / Swimming crabs catches by the community of Vila dos Pescadores (Cubatão) at the estuary of Santos-São Vicente (SP)

The main goal of this study was to evaluate the fisheries of the swimming crabs inside the estuary of Santos-São Vicente, between September 2010 and October 2011, based on information obtained about type and locality of fisheries, and catch composition by species, sex, stages of maturity and carapace width (CW). Four species from the genus Callinectes were identified: Callinectes bocourti (9.0%), C. danae (17.3%), C. exasperatus (0.1%) and C. sapidus (73.6%). It was observed an alteration in the regime and fisheries characteristics considered the traditional one practiced in the past, although keeping the same fisheries method (long line), nowadays the rowing has been substituted by the outboard engine, due to the fishermen use localities more far away searching for bigger specimens which have higher commercial value. The accentuated decline in the production of C. danae as well as the decrease in the size of individuals caught is one of the reasons why the fishermen target their fishing efforts to other species of the genus (mainly C. sapidus). The results showed that the catches of swimming crabs at the estuary of Santos-São Vicente have a dangerous percentage of juveniles (16.1%) for C. danae, making it necessary the determination of a legal minimum size, followed by studies to estimate a reasonable effort levels for each species.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho visa avaliar a pesca artesanal de siris no Estuário de Santos-São Vicente, no período de setembro de 2010 a outubro de 2011, por meio de informações obtidas sobre o local de pesca e a composição das capturas por espécies, sexo, estágio de maturação e largura da carapaça (LC). Quatro espécies de siris foram identificadas nas capturas: Callinectes bocourti (9,0%), C. danae (17,3%), C. exasperatus (0,1%) e C. sapidus (73,6%). Evidenciou-se alteração do regime e características da pesca e composição das capturas, em relação à forma tradicional praticada no passado; apesar da manutenção do mesmo método de captura (espinhel), houve substituição do remo pelo motor e a atuação da frota se estendeu para locais distantes do local de origem em busca de espécimes de maior porte. A acentuada queda na produção de C. danae, bem como a diminuição no tamanho dos indivíduos capturados, constitui um dos motivos pelo qual os pescadores passaram a direcionar a pesca para as outras espécies do gênero (principalmente C. sapidus). Os dados obtidos indicam que a captura de siris no Estuário de Santos-São Vicente registra uma considerável presença de jovens (16,1%), sendo necessária a definição de um tamanho mínimo de captura, seguida de estudos que permitam estimar os níveis de esforço sustentável para cada espécie.(AU)

Captura de siris pela comunidade da Vila dos Pescadores (Cubatão) no Estuário de Santos-São Vicente (SP) / Swimming crabs catches by the community of Vila dos Pescadores (Cubatão) at the estuary of Santos-São Vicente (SP)

The main goal of this study was to evaluate the fisheries of the swimming crabs inside the estuary of Santos-São Vicente, between September 2010 and October 2011, based on information obtained about type and locality of fisheries, and catch composition by species, sex, stages of maturity and carapace width (CW). Four species from the genus Callinectes were identified: Callinectes bocourti (9.0%), C. danae (17.3%), C. exasperatus (0.1%) and C. sapidus (73.6%). It was observed an alteration in the regime and fisheries characteristics considered the traditional one practiced in the past, although keeping the same fisheries method (long line), nowadays the rowing has been substituted by the outboard engine, due to the fishermen use localities more far away searching for bigger specimens which have higher commercial value. The accentuated decline in the production of C. danae as well as the decrease in the size of individuals caught is one of the reasons why the fishermen target their fishing efforts to other species of the genus (mainly C. sapidus). The results showed that the catches of swimming crabs at the estuary of Santos-São Vicente have a dangerous percentage of juveniles (16.1%) for C. danae, making it necessary the determination of a legal minimum size, followed by studies to estimate a reasonable effort levels for each species.

O objetivo deste trabalho visa avaliar a pesca artesanal de siris no Estuário de Santos-São Vicente, no período de setembro de 2010 a outubro de 2011, por meio de informações obtidas sobre o local de pesca e a composição das capturas por espécies, sexo, estágio de maturação e largura da carapaça (LC). Quatro espécies de siris foram identificadas nas capturas: Callinectes bocourti (9,0%), C. danae (17,3%), C. exasperatus (0,1%) e C. sapidus (73,6%). Evidenciou-se alteração do regime e características da pesca e composição das capturas, em relação à forma tradicional praticada no passado; apesar da manutenção do mesmo método de captura (espinhel), houve substituição do remo pelo motor e a atuação da frota se estendeu para locais distantes do local de origem em busca de espécimes de maior porte. A acentuada queda na produção de C. danae, bem como a diminuição no tamanho dos indivíduos capturados, constitui um dos motivos pelo qual os pescadores passaram a direcionar a pesca para as outras espécies do gênero (principalmente C. sapidus). Os dados obtidos indicam que a captura de siris no Estuário de Santos-São Vicente registra uma considerável presença de jovens (16,1%), sendo necessária a definição de um tamanho mínimo de captura, seguida de estudos que permitam estimar os níveis de esforço sustentável para cada espécie.

Population structure of caitipa mojarra (Diapterus rhombeus) in an estuarine system of southeastern Brazil / Estrutura populacional da carapeba (Diapterus rhombeus) em um sistema estuarino do Sudeste do Brasil

Santos estuary suffers anthropic influence through various activities, including fisheries. Caitipa mojarra (Diapterus rhombeus) is among the exploited resources of the region and, despite its importance, it still has not been well studied. The main goal of this study was to analyze the population structure of this speciesregarding gonadal development, age and growth. For the analysis of gonadal development, samplings were carried out between November 2008and August2011, gathering in total 6,639individuals. The age and growth parameters were analyzed from a data base of the species, which contained information from samplings from October 2007 to September2011. Most of the specimens caught (71.93%) wasconsidered juvenile and only 0.68% were spawning. From gonadal maturity, sexual proportion and length classes of the individuals, it could be seen that this species does not spawn within Santos estuary.The growth parameters estimates were L∞of 262.5 mm, k = 0.24/year and longevityof 12.48 years.(AU)

O estuário de Santos sofre influência antrópica por meio de diversas atividades, incluindo a pesca. A carapeba (Diapterus rhombeus) está entre os recursos explorados da região e, apesar de sua importância, ainda não é bem estudada. O objetivo geral desse trabalho foi analisar a estrutura populacional dessa espécie quanto ao desenvolvimento gonadal, idade e crescimento. Para a análise do desenvolvimento gonadal foram utilizadas amostragens realizadas entre novembro de 2008 e agostode 2011, coletando um total de 6.639indivíduos. Os parâmetros de idade e crescimento foram analisados a partir de um banco de dados da espécie que continha informações decoletas deoutubro de 2007 a agostode 2011. A maior parte dos espécimes coletados (71,93%) foi considerada juvenil e apenas 0,68% estavam desovando. A partir dos dados de maturação gonadal, de proporção sexual e classes de comprimento dos indivíduos, foi possível observar que essa espécie não desova dentro do estuário de Santos. Os parâmetros de crescimentos foram estimados em L∞de 262,5 mm, k de0,24/ano e longevidade de 12,48 anos.(AU)

Population structure of Caitipa mojarra (Diapterus rhombeus) in an estuarine system of southeastern Brazil / Estrutura populacional da carapeba (Diapterus rhombeus) em um sistema estuarino do sudeste do Brasil

Santos estuary suffers anthropic influence through various activities, including fisheries. Caitipa mojarra (Diapterus rhombeus) is among the exploited resources of the region and, despite its importance, it still has not been well studied. The main goal of this study was to analyze the population structure of this species regarding gonadal development, age and growth. For the analysis of gonadal development, samplings were carried out between November 2008 and August 2011, gathering in total 6,639 individuals. The age and growth parameters were analyzed from a data base of the species, which contained information from samplings from October 2007 to September 2011. Most of the specimens caught (71.93%) was considered juvenile and only 0.68% were spawning. From gonadal maturity, sexual proportion and length classes of the individuals, it could be seen that this species does not spawn within Santos estuary. The growth parameters estimates were L of 262.5 mm, k = 0.24/year and longevity of 12.48 years.

O estuário de Santos sofre influência antrópica por meio de diversas atividades, incluindo a pesca. A carapeba (Diapterus rhombeus) está entre os recursos explorados da região e, apesar de sua importância, ainda não é bem estudada. O objetivo geral desse trabalho foi analisar a estrutura populacional dessa espécie quanto ao desenvolvimento gonadal, idade e crescimento. Para a análise do desenvolvimento gonadal foram utilizadas amostragens realizadas entre novembro de 2008 e agosto de 2011, coletando um total de 6.639 indivíduos. Os parâmetros de idade e crescimento foram analisados a partir de um banco de dados da espécie que continha informações de coletas de outubro de 2007 a agosto de 2011. A maior parte dos espécimes coletados (71,93%) foi considerada juvenil e apenas 0,68% estavam desovando. A partir dos dados de maturação gonadal, de proporção sexual e classes de comprimento dos indivíduos, foi possível observar que essa espécie não desova dentro do estuário de Santos. Os parâmetros de crescimentos foram estimados em L de 262,5 mm, k de 0,24/ano e longevidade de 12,48 anos.

Population structure of caitipa mojarra (Diapterus rhombeus) in an estuarine system of southeastern Brazil / Estrutura populacional da carapeba (Diapterus rhombeus) em um sistema estuarino do sudeste do Brasil

Santos estuary suffers anthropic influence through various activities, including fisheries. Caitipa mojarra (Diapterus rhombeus) is among the exploited resources of the region and, despite its importance, it still has not been well studied. The main goal of this study was to analyze the population structure of this species regarding gonadal development, age and growth. For the analysis of gonadal development, samplings were carried out between November 2008 and August 2011, gathering in total 6,639 individuals. The age and growth parameters were analyzed from a data base of the species, which contained information from samplings from October 2007 to September 2011. Most of the specimens caught (71.93%) was considered juvenile and only 0.68% were spawning. From gonadal maturity, sexual proportion and length classes of the individuals, it could be seen that this species does not spawn within Santos estuary. The growth parameters estimates were L∞ of 262.5 mm, k = 0.24/year and longevity of 12.48 years.(AU)

O estuário de Santos sofre influência antrópica por meio de diversas atividades, incluindo a pesca. A carapeba (Diapterus rhombeus) está entre os recursos explorados da região e, apesar de sua importância, ainda não é bem estudada. O objetivo geral desse trabalho foi analisar a estrutura populacional dessa espécie quanto ao desenvolvimento gonadal, idade e crescimento. Para a análise do desenvolvimento gonadal foram utilizadas amostragens realizadas entre novembro de 2008 e agosto de 2011, coletando um total de 6.639indivíduos. Os parâmetros de idade e crescimento foram analisados a partir de um banco de dados da espécie que continha informações de coletas de outubro de 2007 a agosto de 2011. A maior parte dos espécimes coletados (71,93%) foi considerada juvenil e apenas 0,68% estavam desovando. A partir dos dados de maturação gonadal, de proporção sexual e classes de comprimento dos indivíduos, foi possível observar que essa espécie não desova dentro do estuário de Santos. Os parâmetros de crescimentos foram estimados em L∞ de 262,5 mm, k de 0,24/ano e longevidade de 12,48 anos.(AU)

Assessment of metal concentrations in muscles of the blue crab, Callinectes danae S., from the Santos Estuarine System.

This study determined the concentrations of eleven metals in the blue crab, Callinectes danae, from nine sites in the Santos Estuarine System of Sao Paulo State, Brazil. The results were compared to guidelines established in the United States, Europe and Brazil for the safety of human consumers. Muscles of blue crabs were removed by dissection and concentrations of Al, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn Ni, Pb and Zn were determined. In general, the concentrations of metals were low, and the crabs were regarded as safe for human consumption. Crabs from a single site (site 4) exceeded the guidelines established by the United States and Europe, but not Brazil, for Pb, with a mean tissue concentration of 1.725 µg g(-1). With the exception of Al, Fe and Ni, significant differences were noted between sites in the concentrations of each metal in crab tissue.

A preliminary assessment of metal bioaccumulation in the blue crab, Callinectes danae S., from the Sao Vicente Channel, Sao Paulo State, Brazil.

The concentrations of metals in tissues of Callinectes danae were evaluated, aiming to determine the bioaccumulation process of this species. Gills presented the highest mean concentrations for most metals, except for Hg (

Selectivity of bottom gillnet of southeastern Brazil / Seletividade das redes de emalhe de fundo do sudeste do Brasil

Gillnet is one of the most widespread types of fishing gear on the Brazilian coast, greatly used by the small-scale fleet due to its low cost and easy handling. This study aimed to estimate the selectivity of gillnets by using length-converted catch curves for the main Osteichthyes species landed at Santos (SP) by gillnet fleet. Only landing data (length and weight) and production data were used, which are useful and easy to obtain, especially in countries with low budget for scientific research. The length at first capture (Lc50%) was compared to the length at first maturity (L50) showing that only Micropogonias furnieri had a Lc50% very close to L50; Menticirrhus americanus and Macrodon atricauda presented a characteristic celomatic cavity expansion during their pre-spawning period, which increases their maximum perimeter and changing the gear selectivity for both species; and Scomberomorus brasiliensis had the widest selection range, but all landed individuals already had length higher than the L50. This method, combined with other biological data gathered from the literature, could be a good tool for fishery management. We suggest that temporal closed fishing areas and/or periods of gillnet usage suspension, and revision of technological aspects should be considered by management plans.

A pesca de emalhe é uma das artes mais difundidas no litoral brasileiro. É amplamente utilizada, principalmente pela frota artesanal, pelo fácil manuseio e baixo custo de aquisição e manutenção. O objetivo deste trabalho foi estimar a seletividade das redes de emalhe, pelo método da curva de captura linearizada convertida para comprimento, para as principais espécies de Osteichthyes desembarcadas em Santos-SP pela frota de emalhe. Para tanto, foram utilizados apenas dados de desembarque (comprimento e peso) e de produção, pois são úteis e mais acessíveis, especialmente em países com poucos recursos para pesquisa. Comparando o comprimento de primeira captura (Lc50%) com o de primeira maturação (L50) observou-se que apenas Micropogonias furnieri teve um Lc50% muito próximo ao L50; Menticirrhus americanus e Macrodon atricauda apresentaram aumento da cavidade celomática no período pré-desova, o que aumentou seu perímetro máximo alterando a seletividade do aparelho para estas espécies; e Scomberomorus brasiliensis teve a maior amplitude de seleção, porém todos os indivíduos desembarcados já tinham comprimento superior ao L50. Esta metodologia, utilizada em conjunto com outros dados biológicos levantados na literatura, pode ser uma ferramenta apropriada para o manejo pesqueiro. Sugere-se que os planos de manejo considerem a adoção de proibição temporária da pesca de emalhe em áreas e/ou períodos, e a revisão de aspectos tecnológicos.

Opsanus beta: an invasive fish species in the Santos estuary, Brazil / Opsanus beta: uma espécie de peixe invasora no estuário de Santos, Brasil

A non-indigenous fish species, Opsanus beta, was found during an ichthyofauna sampling program in Santos Estuary. Common on the western coast of Florida and the Caribbean, the most probable source of this occurrence is due to ballast water from the ships. The 140 specimens reported (18 to 323 mm TL; 8 to 442 g WT) were caught in fish baited traps (215.28 ± 5.95 mm TL; 207.36 ± 16.42 g WT; 25.7% of the total caught), otter-trawls (213.97 ± 5.87 mm TL and 194.92 ± 11.31 g; 54.3%) and gillnets (226.93 ± 5.40 mm TL and 218.14 ± 17.01 g; 20.0%). Of 81 specimens sexed, 43.6% of females (n = 55) and 92.0% of males (n = 24) have mature gonads. Santos estuarine areas are very similar to the O. beta original environment, and allied to the absence of natural predators, and its environmental plasticity, projecting it as a well adapted species in region, which must be viewed as a potential serious implication to other Brazilian estuarine systems.

Opsanus beta, espécie não nativa, foi registrada em um programa de monitoramento da ictiofauna no estuário de Santos. Comum na costa oeste da Flórida e Caribe, seu registro seria decorrente provavelmente da água de lastro de navios. Os 140 espécimes amostrados (18 a 323 mm CT, 8 a 442 g PT) foram capturados em armadilhas (215,28 ± 5,95 mm CT; 207,36 ± 16,42 g PT; 25,7% do total capturado), em arrastos-de-portas (213,97 ± 5,87 mm CT; 194,92 ± 11,31 g; 54,3%) e redes de emalhe (226,93 ± 5,40 mm CT; 218,14 ± 17,01 g; 20,0%). Dos 81 exemplares sexados, 43,6% das fêmeas (n = 55) e 92,0% dos machos (n = 24) apresentaram gônadas maduras. As áreas estuarinas de Santos são similares ao ambiente original da espécie, que, aliada à ausência de predadores naturais e à plasticidade ambiental, está se estabelecendo na região, implicando em risco potencial para outros sistemas estuarinos do sudeste-sul do Brasil.

Beak increment counts as a tool for growth studies of the common octopus Octopus vulgaris in southern Brazil / Contagem de incrementos em bicos como uma ferramenta para os estudos de crescimento do polvo-comum Octopus vulgaris do sudeste-sul do Brasil

The common-octopus Octopus vulgaris Cuvier, 1797 has high commercial value, and it is the most important octopus species on landings all over the world. Age estimation is vital for the comprehension of species life cycle and population dynamics, and further elaboration of an adequate management planning of its exploitation. In this study, 120 beaks of O. vulgaris had its growth increments counted and, assuming a daily basis periodicity, growth curves were adjusted taking into account the relation between estimated age (a) and dorsal mantle length (DML), total weight (Wt) and upper beak crest length (CrL). The octopuses analyzed ranged from 50 to 163 mm of DML (162 and 290 marks, respectively) and 55 to 1,498 g of Wt (164 and 356 marks, respectively, considering a one year life expectancy). The best fit for all the analyzed situations was found using potential equations: DML = 0.876a0.871, WT = 0.001a2.424, CrL = 0.210a0.790, considering individuals with number of marks from 118 to 356. Counting increments on the upper beak of octopus appears to be a relatively simple and useful way of estimating its age.

O povo-comum, Octopus vulgaris Cuvier, 1797, apresenta alto valor comercial e é a espécie de polvo mais capturada mundialmente. Estimativas de idade são vitais para a compreensão do ciclo de vida e dinâmica populacional de uma espécie e futura elaboração de um plano de gerenciamento adequado de sua explotação. Neste estudo, incrementos encontrados nas mandíbulas foram contados e, considerando uma deposição diária de incrementos, curvas de crescimento foram ajustadas considerando a relação entre a idade estimada (a) e o comprimento dorsal de manto (DML), peso total (Wt) e comprimento da mandíbula superior (CrL). Os indivíduos analisados possuíam entre 50 e 163 mm de DML (162 e 290 incrementos, respectivamente) e entre 55 e 1.498 g de Wt (164 e 356 incrementos, respectivamente, na expectativa de 1 ano de vida). O melhor ajuste em todas as situações analisadas foi encontrado utilizando equações potenciais: DML = 0,876a0.871, WT = 0,001a2.424, CrL = 0,210 a0.790, para indivíduos com número de incrementos entre 118 e 356. A contagem de incrementos na mandíbula superior de polvos se mostrou uma forma relativamente simples e bastante útil na estimativa de idade desses cefalópodes.

Selectivity of bottom gillnet of southeastern Brazil / Seletividade das redes de emalhe de fundo do sudeste do Brasil

Gillnet is one of the most widespread types of fishing gear on the Brazilian coast, greatly used by the small-scale fleet due to its low cost and easy handling. This study aimed to estimate the selectivity of gillnets by using length-converted catch curves for the main Osteichthyes species landed at Santos (SP) by gillnet fleet. Only landing data (length and weight) and production data were used, which are useful and easy to obtain, especially in countries with low budget for scientific research. The length at first capture (Lc50%) was compared to the length at first maturity (L50) showing that only Micropogonias furnieri had a Lc50% very close to L50; Menticirrhus americanus and Macrodon atricauda presented a characteristic celomatic cavity expansion during their pre-spawning period, which increases their maximum perimeter and changing the gear selectivity for both species; and Scomberomorus brasiliensis had the widest selection range, but all landed individuals already had length higher than the L50. This method, combined with other biological data gathered from the literature, could be a good tool for fishery management. We suggest that temporal closed fishing areas and/or periods of gillnet usage suspension, and revision of technological aspects should be considered by management plans.

A pesca de emalhe é uma das artes mais difundidas no litoral brasileiro. É amplamente utilizada, principalmente pela frota artesanal, pelo fácil manuseio e baixo custo de aquisição e manutenção. O objetivo deste trabalho foi estimar a seletividade das redes de emalhe, pelo método da curva de captura linearizada convertida para comprimento, para as principais espécies de Osteichthyes desembarcadas em Santos-SP pela frota de emalhe. Para tanto, foram utilizados apenas dados de desembarque (comprimento e peso) e de produção, pois são úteis e mais acessíveis, especialmente em países com poucos recursos para pesquisa. Comparando o comprimento de primeira captura (Lc50%) com o de primeira maturação (L50) observou-se que apenas Micropogonias furnieri teve um Lc50% muito próximo ao L50; Menticirrhus americanus e Macrodon atricauda apresentaram aumento da cavidade celomática no período pré-desova, o que aumentou seu perímetro máximo alterando a seletividade do aparelho para estas espécies; e Scomberomorus brasiliensis teve a maior amplitude de seleção, porém todos os indivíduos desembarcados já tinham comprimento superior ao L50. Esta metodologia, utilizada em conjunto com outros dados biológicos levantados na literatura, pode ser uma ferramenta apropriada para o manejo pesqueiro. Sugere-se que os planos de manejo considerem a adoção de proibição temporária da pesca de emalhe em áreas e