RESUMO
The age and daily growth of fish are registered through the deposition of increments in their otoliths, which are concretions formed by the precipitation of substances present in the endolymphatic fluid, mainly calcium carbonate (CaCO3). Faced with the need to fill some of the gaps in the knowledge on the occurrence and duration of the initial stages of snapper species' life cycles in the Abrolhos Bank, this study aimed to describe the growth rates, age, and period of pelagic larval duration (PLD) of three snapper species during the larval pre-settlement phase, in the Abrolhos Bank region. The post-larvae were captured using light traps. Otoliths were removed from 117 samples of snapper species; however, only 69 were viable for age estimation, of which 15 were Lutjanus analis, 25 were Lutjanus jocu, and 29 were Lutjanus synagris. Together, the samples presented individuals with total lengths ranging from 16.14 to 24.76 mm and ages from 21 to 39 days. Settlement marks were found for all three species, and the average PLD was ~25 days. The somatic growth of the snapper species was positively correlated with otolith growth. L. jocu presented the greatest daily growth compared to the other species. The three species use the Abrolhos Bank as a larval settlement site, demonstrating plasticity by using different habitats throughout their lives.
Assuntos
Larva , Membrana dos Otólitos , Animais , Larva/crescimento & desenvolvimento , Membrana dos Otólitos/crescimento & desenvolvimento , Membrana dos Otólitos/química , Perciformes/crescimento & desenvolvimento , Parques Recreativos , Percas/crescimento & desenvolvimento , Percas/fisiologiaRESUMO
This research study obtained the first morphological description of the Colorado snapper (Lutjanus colorado) larvae assisted by DNA barcoding as a molecular identification tool. Sixteen Lutjanidae larvae were separated from zooplankton samples and selected for this study. A fragment of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) of 658 bp was used in the analyses of intra- and interspecific genetic divergences; a neighbour-joining tree (NJ) of K2P distances was performed with reference sequences of 15 Lutjanidae species from the Northeastern Tropical Pacific. Genetic divergences and the NJ tree identified 16 larvae as L. colorado. Morphological investigations of larvae at different developmental stages were performed; similarities and differences are discussed in comparison to four species described previously for the Northeastern Pacific. Pigmentation patterns were the best diagnostic features, particularly the caudal melanophores, at least up to 12.4 mm body length.
Assuntos
Código de Barras de DNA Taxonômico , Perciformes , Animais , Larva/anatomia & histologia , Colorado , Complexo IV da Cadeia de Transporte de Elétrons/genética , Filogenia , Peixes/genética , Perciformes/genética , Perciformes/metabolismoRESUMO
ABSTRACT To determine the coral reefmorpho-functional structure of San Andrés, regarding functional benthic diversity and fish (Lutjanidae), we evaluated the condition of the coral structure on the leeward side of the island, which is an area impacted by tourism, through diving and fishing. Three sampling sites were evaluated during two years recording the distribution of benthic organisms, environmental variables and Snappers density (Lutjanidae). A low density of Lutjanusjocu and Ocyurus chrysurus was found, with a high density ofjuveniles of L. apodus and L. mahogoni, which showed a preference for reefs with submassive and brain corals. Algae especially Macroalgae and octocorals were those with the greatest coverage in the reefs, followed by inert substrates, while corals were represented by species with a wide distribution such as Agaricia agaricites and Porites astreoides. Octocorals correlated negatively with stony corals and that the most widespread fragile corals were the finger. We concluded that there is a higher density of mainly juvenile snappers where there is a greater variety of coral morpho-functional groups, and not necessarily in sites with greater coral coverage. Also, adult snappers were associated with octocoral zones. This shows that morpho-functional diversity is a crucial factor in the permanence of snappers.
RESUMEN Para determinar la estructura morfo-funcional del arrecife coralino de San Andrés, en términos de diversidad funcional bentónica y peces (Lutjanidae), evaluamos el estado de la estructura coralina en sotavento de la isla, la cual es un área impactada por el turismo, a través del buceo y la pesca. Se evaluaron tres sitios de muestreo durante dos años, registrando la distribución de organismos bentónicos, variables ambientales y densidad de pargos (Lutjanidae). Se encontró una baja densidad de Lutjanus jocu y Ocyurus chrysurus, con alta densidad de juveniles de L. apodus y L. mahogoni, los cuales mostraron una preferencia por los arrecifes con corales submasivos y cerebroides. Las algas, especialmente las macroalgas y los octocorales, fueron los de mayor cobertura en los arrecifes, seguidas por los sustratos inertes, mientras que los corales estuvieron representados por especies de amplia distribución como Agaricia agaricites y Porites astreoides. Los octocorales se correlacionaron negativamente con los corales pétreos y los corales frágiles más extendidos fueron los dediformes. Concluimos que existe una mayor densidad de pargos principalmente juveniles donde existe una mayor variedad de grupos morfo-funcionales de coral, y no necesariamente en sitios con mayor cobertura de coral. Además, los pargos adultos estuvieron asociados con zonas octocorales. Esto muestra que la diversidad morfo-funcional es un factor crucial en la permanencia de los pargos.
RESUMO
During the examination of 913 fish specimens belonging to four families in the Campeche Bank (Gulf of Mexico), 23 gill ectoparasitic monogenean species were found, which belong to three families: Dactylogyridae, Microcotylidae and Diclidophoridae. The species Euryhaliotremaamydrum, E.carbuncularium, E.dunlapae, E.fajeravilae, E.fastigatum, E.longibaculum, E.paracanthi, E.tubocirrus, Haliotrematoidescornigerum, H.gracilihamus, H.heteracantha, H.longihamus, H.magnigastrohamus, H.striatohamus, Hamatopedunculariabagre, Neotetraonchusbravohollisae, and N.felis (all Dactylogyridae) were found on the hosts Lutjanussynagris, L.griseus, Ariopsisfelis, Bagremarinus, Archosargusrhomboidalis, and Haemulonplumieri. Additionally, Microcotylearchosargi, Microcotyle sp., and Microcotyloidesincisa (all Microcotylidae) were found on L.griseus and A.rhomboidalis; finally, Choricotyle sp. 1, Choricotyle sp. 2, and Choricotyle sp. 3 (all Diclidophoridae) were found on H.plumieri. The prevalence, abundance, mean intensity of infection, and supplementary taxonomic revisions for all monogeneans found are provided. Partial sequences of the 28S rRNA gene were also obtained for monogeneans of ariid, sparid, and haemulid host fishes to explore their systematic position within the Monogenea. New locality and host records for some previously described species of Euryhaliotrema, Hamatopeduncularia, Microcotyle, and Choricotyle from lutjanid, ariid, sparid, and haemulid hosts were reported. The present study adds evidence supporting the interoceanic occurrence of the same monogenean species (on lutjanids) on the west-east Atlantic and Pacific Oceans (= amphiamerican species). As previously suggested, there are at least, two possibilities to explain that parasite distribution: differentiation of morphological features in these monogeneans have resulted in only slight to insignificant morphological changes developing over the extended period of 3.2 mya (when the Isthmus of Panama was closing) and/or speciation is only evident at molecular level.
RESUMO
We developed a set of hypervariable microsatellite markers for the Pacific red snapper (Lutjanus peru), an economically important marine fish for small-scale fisheries in the west coast of Mexico. We performed shotgun genome sequencing with the 454 XL titanium chemistry and used bioinformatic tools to search for perfect microsatellite loci. We selected 66 primer pairs that were synthesized and genotyped in an ABI PRISM 3730XL DNA sequencer in 32 individuals from the Gulf of California. We estimated levels of genetic diversity, deviations from linkage and Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, estimated the frequency of null alleles and the probability of individual identity for the new markers. We reanalyzed 16 loci in 16 individuals to estimate genotyping error rates. Eighteen loci failed to amplify, 16 loci were discarded due to unspecific amplifications and 32 loci (14 tetranucleotide and 18 dinucleotide) were successfully scored. The average number of alleles per locus was 21 (±6.87, SD) and ranged from 8 to 34. The average observed and expected heterozygosities were 0.787 (±0.144 SD, range 0.250-0.935) and 0.909 (±0.122 SD, range 0.381-0.965), respectively. No significant linkage was detected. Eight loci showed deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, and from these, four loci showed moderate null allele frequencies (0.104-0.220). The probability of individual identity for the new loci was 1.46-62. Genotyping error rates averaged 9.58%. The new markers will be useful to investigate patterns of larval dispersal, metapopulation dynamics, fine-scale genetic structure and diversity aimed to inform the implementation of spatially explicit fisheries management strategies in the Gulf of California.
Assuntos
Perciformes/genética , Análise de Sequência de DNA/métodos , Alelos , Animais , Primers do DNA/genética , Pesqueiros , Peixes/genética , Frequência do Gene/genética , Ligação Genética/genética , Loci Gênicos/genética , Variação Genética/genética , Sequenciamento de Nucleotídeos em Larga Escala/métodos , Desequilíbrio de Ligação/genética , México , Repetições de Microssatélites/genéticaRESUMO
The main goal of this research was to investigate the differences in diet composition among three species of the genus Lutjanus inhabiting a coastal lagoon as juveniles. The working hypothesis was that these species feed on a common base of food resources and therefore, some niche overlap is present in terms of general diet composition. However, changes in the trophic niche with size and differences in some morphological traits among species explain observed differences in diet. Fish were collected during 42 sampling trips conducted regularly from February 2011 to January 2012 using several types of fishing gear. Total number of analyzed stomachs was 288 for Lutjanus argentiventris from 2.3 to 19.9 cm total length (TL); 178 for Lutjanus colorado ranging from 2.4 to 30.1 cm TL; and 183 for Lutjanus novemfasciatus with 1.2 to 20.0 cm TL. Results indicate that juveniles of all three lutjanid species share a general diet based on decapods and fishes. However, L. novemfasciatus has a more piscivorous habit, which can be explained by a more slender body shape and larger teeth, characteristics, which increase fish catching performance. Larger fish of all three species eat larger prey, which is consistent with the optimum foraging theory.(AU)
Se investigaron las diferencias en la composición de la dieta de juveniles de tres especies del género Lutjanus que habitan una laguna costera. La hipótesis de trabajo fue que estas especies se alimentan de una base común de recursos alimentarios y, por tanto, alguna superposición del nicho está presente en términos de la composición general de la dieta. Sin embargo, los cambios en el nicho trófico con la talla y diferencias entre especies en algunas características morfológicas, explican las diferencias observadas en la dieta. Los peces fueron colectados durante 42 viajes de muestreo realizados de febrero del 2011 a enero del 2012 usando varios tipos de artes de pesca. Se analizaron 288 estómagos de Lutjanus argentiventris de 2.3 a 19.9 cm de largo total (LT); 178 de Lutjanus colorado entre 2.4 y 30.1 cm LT; y 183 de Lutjanus novemfasciatus de 1.2 a 20.0 cm LT. Los resultados indican que los juveniles de las tres especies de lutjánidos comparten una dieta general basada en decápodos y peces. Sin embargo, Lutjanus novemfasciatus tiene un hábito piscívoro mayor, el cual puede ser explicado por la forma del cuerpo más delgada y dientes mayores, características que incrementan la eficiencia para capturar peces. Los peces mayores de las tres especies comieron presas mayores y este cambio ontogénico es consistente con la teoría del forrajeo óptimo.(AU)
Assuntos
Animais , Perciformes/genética , Perciformes/metabolismo , Dieta/classificação , EcossistemaRESUMO
The main goal of this research was to investigate the differences in diet composition among three species of the genus Lutjanus inhabiting a coastal lagoon as juveniles. The working hypothesis was that these species feed on a common base of food resources and therefore, some niche overlap is present in terms of general diet composition. However, changes in the trophic niche with size and differences in some morphological traits among species explain observed differences in diet. Fish were collected during 42 sampling trips conducted regularly from February 2011 to January 2012 using several types of fishing gear. Total number of analyzed stomachs was 288 for Lutjanus argentiventris from 2.3 to 19.9 cm total length (TL); 178 for Lutjanus colorado ranging from 2.4 to 30.1 cm TL; and 183 for Lutjanus novemfasciatus with 1.2 to 20.0 cm TL. Results indicate that juveniles of all three lutjanid species share a general diet based on decapods and fishes. However, L. novemfasciatus has a more piscivorous habit, which can be explained by a more slender body shape and larger teeth, characteristics, which increase fish catching performance. Larger fish of all three species eat larger prey, which is consistent with the optimum foraging theory.(AU)
Se investigaron las diferencias en la composición de la dieta de juveniles de tres especies del género Lutjanus que habitan una laguna costera. La hipótesis de trabajo fue que estas especies se alimentan de una base común de recursos alimentarios y, por tanto, alguna superposición del nicho está presente en términos de la composición general de la dieta. Sin embargo, los cambios en el nicho trófico con la talla y diferencias entre especies en algunas características morfológicas, explican las diferencias observadas en la dieta. Los peces fueron colectados durante 42 viajes de muestreo realizados de febrero del 2011 a enero del 2012 usando varios tipos de artes de pesca. Se analizaron 288 estómagos de Lutjanus argentiventris de 2.3 a 19.9 cm de largo total (LT); 178 de Lutjanus colorado entre 2.4 y 30.1 cm LT; y 183 de Lutjanus novemfasciatus de 1.2 a 20.0 cm LT. Los resultados indican que los juveniles de las tres especies de lutjánidos comparten una dieta general basada en decápodos y peces. Sin embargo, Lutjanus novemfasciatus tiene un hábito piscívoro mayor, el cual puede ser explicado por la forma del cuerpo más delgada y dientes mayores, características que incrementan la eficiencia para capturar peces. Los peces mayores de las tres especies comieron presas mayores y este cambio ontogénico es consistente con la teoría del forrajeo óptimo.(AU)
Assuntos
Animais , Dieta/classificação , Perciformes/metabolismo , Perciformes/genética , EcossistemaRESUMO
Finfish mariculture is typically threatened by parasite and disease outbreaks. Therefore, it is important to identify parasite species of potential risk for this activity. Snappers are valuable food fish worldwide. In the Eastern Pacific, spotted rose snapper (Lutjanus guttatus [Steindachner, 1869]) is a firm candidate for sea-cage aquaculture. In the current study, the parasitism of caged L. guttatus by dactylogyrids was evaluated for the first time during a complete farming period. Twenty five thousand juvenile fish produced at the Research Center for Food and Development (CIAD, Mazatlan Unit) were reared in a sentinel sea-cage from February to November 2012 in Mazatlan Bay, Mexico. A fish sample (n=15) was obtained every month. Dactylogyrids from the left second gill arch were identified and quantified. A total of 18,704 dactylogyrids distributed in three species, Euryhaliotrema perezponcei García-Vargas, Fajer-Ávila and Lamothe-Argumedo, 2008, E. mehen (Soler-Jiménez, García-Gasca and Fajer-Ávila, 2012), and Haliotrematoides guttati García-Vargas, Fajer-Ávila and Lamothe-Argumedo, 2008 (Monogenea: Dactylogyridae) was found, which were able to infect caged L. guttatus since the first month of the farming period. Prevalence of these parasite species was 100% all the time, except for initial low values for E. mehen and H. guttati. The mean intensity of infection of each dactylogyrid species varied significantly between sampling months. Euryhaliotrema perezponcei was the most abundant parasite, reaching the highest mean intensity in May, June and July (154.3, 296.9 and 176.6 parasites/host, respectively). No clear seasonality of infection was observed; however, the influence of the water temperature on the observed infection levels is discussed. There was no mortality, change on behavior or pathological signs. However, given the rapid infection and proliferation of dactylogyrids, particularly E. perezponcei on L. guttaus reared in a sentinel sea-cage, outbreak of these parasites could be expected when this fish species is cultured on a large scale.
Assuntos
Infecções por Cestoides/veterinária , Doenças dos Peixes/epidemiologia , Perciformes/parasitologia , Platelmintos/fisiologia , Infecções por Trematódeos/veterinária , Animais , Aquicultura , Infecções por Cestoides/parasitologia , Doenças dos Peixes/parasitologia , Brânquias/parasitologia , Masculino , México/epidemiologia , Platelmintos/classificação , Platelmintos/isolamento & purificação , Infecções por Trematódeos/parasitologiaRESUMO
This study evaluated the hematological profile of 24 red snapper Lutjanus analis specimens before and after the culture in floating net cages. The fish were caught with baited traps in Lagoa da Conceição, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil, and stocked in floating net cages for 30 days. At the beginning and at the end of the culture period, hematological parameters such as hematocrit percentage, differential count of leukocytes and total count of erythrocytes, leukocytes and thrombocytes were analyzed. Additionally, the fish were weighed and measured in both sampling periods. Fish showed a mean weight of 364.8 ± 63.7 g and total length of 28.7 ± 1.8 cm before culture and a mean weight of 417.4 ± 86.5 g and total length of 30.3 ± 0.7 cm after culture. Significant increase (p < 0,05) in the hematocrit percentage and total leukocytes and monocytes counts after culture were observed. This study showed that L. analis cultured for 30 days showed changes in the hematological parameters that might be related to adaptive physiological mechanisms of this species to farming conditions.(AU)
Este estudo avaliou o quadro hematológico de 24 espécimes de cioba Lutjanus analis antes e depois da criação em tanques-rede. Os peixes foram capturados com armadilhas do tipo covo na Lagoa da Conceição, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brasil, e estocados em tanques-rede por 30 dias. No início e no final do período de cultivo, os parâmetros hematológicos como percentual de hematócrito, número total de eritrócitos, além das contagens totais de leucócitos e trombócitos e contagem diferencial de leucócitos foram analisados. Adicionalmente, os peixes foram medidos e pesados em ambos os períodos de amostragem. Os peixes apresentaram peso médio de 364,8 ± 63,7 g e comprimento total médio de 28,7 ± 1,8 cm antes do cultivo, e peso médio de 417,4 ± 86,5 g e comprimento total médio de 30,3 ± 0,7 cm depois do cultivo. Foi observado aumento significativo (p < 0,05) no percentual de hematócrito, número total de leucócitos e monócitos após o período de cultivo. Este estudo mostrou que L. analis mantidos em cativeiro durante 30 dias, apresentaram poucas alterações nos parâmetros hematológicos que podem estar relacionadas à mecanismos fisiológicos adaptativos desta espécie às condições de cultivo.(AU)
Assuntos
Animais , Perciformes/sangue , Pesqueiros , Testes Hematológicos , Aumento de Peso , Hematócrito , Eritrócitos , Contagem de Leucócitos , Contagem de PlaquetasRESUMO
This study evaluated the hematological profile of 24 red snapper Lutjanus analis specimens before and after the culture in floating net cages. The fish were caught with baited traps in Lagoa da Conceição, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil, and stocked in floating net cages for 30 days. At the beginning and at the end of the culture period, hematological parameters such as hematocrit percentage, differential count of leukocytes and total count of erythrocytes, leukocytes and thrombocytes were analyzed. Additionally, the fish were weighed and measured in both sampling periods. Fish showed a mean weight of 364.8 ± 63.7 g and total length of 28.7 ± 1.8 cm before culture and a mean weight of 417.4 ± 86.5 g and total length of 30.3 ± 0.7 cm after culture. Significant increase (p < 0,05) in the hematocrit percentage and total leukocytes and monocytes counts after culture were observed. This study showed that L. analis cultured for 30 days showed changes in the hematological parameters that might be related to adaptive physiological mechanisms of this species to farming conditions.
Este estudo avaliou o quadro hematológico de 24 espécimes de cioba Lutjanus analis antes e depois da criação em tanques-rede. Os peixes foram capturados com armadilhas do tipo covo na Lagoa da Conceição, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brasil, e estocados em tanques-rede por 30 dias. No início e no final do período de cultivo, os parâmetros hematológicos como percentual de hematócrito, número total de eritrócitos, além das contagens totais de leucócitos e trombócitos e contagem diferencial de leucócitos foram analisados. Adicionalmente, os peixes foram medidos e pesados em ambos os períodos de amostragem. Os peixes apresentaram peso médio de 364,8 ± 63,7 g e comprimento total médio de 28,7 ± 1,8 cm antes do cultivo, e peso médio de 417,4 ± 86,5 g e comprimento total médio de 30,3 ± 0,7 cm depois do cultivo. Foi observado aumento significativo (p < 0,05) no percentual de hematócrito, número total de leucócitos e monócitos após o período de cultivo. Este estudo mostrou que L. analis mantidos em cativeiro durante 30 dias, apresentaram poucas alterações nos parâmetros hematológicos que podem estar relacionadas à mecanismos fisiológicos adaptativos desta espécie às condições de cultivo.
Assuntos
Animais , Aumento de Peso , Perciformes/sangue , Pesqueiros , Testes Hematológicos , Contagem de Leucócitos , Contagem de Plaquetas , Eritrócitos , HematócritoRESUMO
Reproductive biology of the Golden snapper Lutjanus inermis (Perciformes: Lutjanidae) in the central Mexican Pacific. Reproductive aspects and information on the effect of fishery activities over this species stock are scarce, despite the imperative need of effective protection and resource management programs. To support the possible establishment of closed seasons and catch levels for the area, our study aimed to evaluate the spawning season of the Golden snapper (Lutjanus inermis). For this, fish caught by artisanal fisheries in the Navidad, Tenacatita and Chamela bays (Jalisco, Mexico) were sampled monthly from 1999-2008, and analyzed sex ratios, spawning season and size at first maturity. A total of 311 (53.1%) females and 275 (46.9%) males were caught, and the observed sex ratio was 1:0.88. The total length range was 14.4-37.0cm and total weight range from 48-575g. The length at first maturity was 23.9cm TL for females and 23.6cm TL for males. The gonadosomatic index showed two principal reproductive periods in the year (February-April and September- November), when the largest number of mature gonads were observed. Ovaries were of asynchronic development type and seven oocyte development stages were identified. Testicles showed lobular development and spermatozoa were observed in the center of the cysts and in the collecting ducts. It is important to mention that our results support the current suitable exploitation of this species in the area.
Debido a los escasos antecedentes del efecto de las pesquerías y manejo del pargo Lutjanus inermis, es importante conocer la época reproductiva para el establecimiento de temporadas de veda, ya que la biomasa de los peces en fase de reproducción, es usada como punto de referencia para evaluar la condición del stock explotado y para establecer futuros niveles de captura. Por ello, el objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar algunos aspectos reproductivos como proporción sexual, época reproductiva, talla de madurez de L. inermis en las costas de Jalisco, México. Durante 1999-2008, se llevaron a cabo muestreos mensuales de los ejemplares capturados por la pesca artesanal en las bahías de Navidad, Tenacatita y Chamela (Jalisco, México). Se recolectaron 311 (53.1%) hembras y 275 (46.9%) machos y, la proporción de sexos (1:0.88) no presentó diferencia significativa. El intervalo de longitud total fue 14.4 a 37.0cm y el peso total de 48 a 575g. L. inermis presentó los máximos valores del IGS en dos periodos, febrero-abril y septiembre-noviembre, también en estos periodos se presentaron los mayores porcentajes de organismos en estadio de maduración. El ovario presentó el tipo de desarrollo asincrónico y se reconocieron siete fases del desarrollo de los ovocitos. En los testículos se observó el tipo de desarrollo lobular, se observaron espermatozoides en el centro de los cistos y en el conducto recolector. La talla de madurez (L50) fue de 23.9cm LT para hembras y 23.6cm LT para machos. Considerando el periodo de muestreo de este estudio, los antecedentes descritos podrían ser de utilidad en la formulación de planes o estrategias de manejo de esta especie.
Assuntos
Animais , Feminino , Masculino , Gônadas/crescimento & desenvolvimento , Perciformes/fisiologia , Reprodução/fisiologia , Maturidade Sexual/fisiologia , México , Perciformes/crescimento & desenvolvimento , Estações do Ano , Razão de MasculinidadeRESUMO
Twenty one of 29 species of snappers (Lutjanidae), examined for dactylogyrids (Monogenoidea) from the Red Sea, Persian Gulf, the Indo-west and eastern Pacific Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea were parasitized by 16 new and 11 previously described species of Euryhaliotrema: Euryhaliotrema adelpha sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema anecorhizion sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema cardinale sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema chrysotaeniae, Euryhaliotrema cognatus sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema cryptophallus sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema diplops sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema distinctum sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema fajeravilae sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema fastigatum, Euryhaliotrema fatuum sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema ferocis sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema hainanense, Euryhaliotrema longibaculum, Euryhaliotrema mehen comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema paracanthi, Euryhaliotrema paululum sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema perezponcei, Euryhaliotrema ramulum sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema seyi sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema simplicis sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema spirotubiforum, Euryhaliotrema tormocleithrum sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema torquecirrus, Euryhaliotrema tubocirrus, Euryhaliotrema xinyingense, and Euryhaliotrema youngi sp. nov. Six species of Euryhaliotrema, previously reported from lutjanid hosts, were not collected: Euryhaliotrema anguiformis comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema guangdongense, Euryhaliotrema johni, Euryhaliotrema lutiani, Euryhaliotrema lutjani, and Euryhaliotrema nanaoense comb. nov. The diagnosis of Euryhaliotrema was emended to include species having tandem or slightly overlapping gonads, a pretesticular germarium, a globose haptor with morphologically similar anchors and hooks, a coiled or meandering male copulatory organ, a dextral vaginal pore, and hooks with upright acute thumbs and slender shanks comprised of one subunit. A bulbous base of the MCO and presence of an accessory piece in the copulatory complex were no longer considered features defining the genus. As a result, Euryhaliotrematoides and Aliatrema were placed in subjective synonymy with Euryhaliotrema, and the following transfers were proposed: Euryhaliotrema annulocirrus comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema aspistis comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema berenguelae comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema cribbi comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema grandis comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema mehen comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema microphallus comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema pirulum comb. nov., and Euryhaliotrema triangulovagina comb. nov. In addition, the following new combinations were proposed based on the revised diagnosis of the genus: Euryhaliotrema anguiformis comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema eukurodai comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema kurodai comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema monoporosum comb. nov., and Euryhaliotrema nanaoense comb. nov. The dactylogyrids, Protancyrocephalus rangusi (from a lutjanid host) and Daitreosoma chaetodontis (from a chaetodontid host), were considered species inquirendae. Haliotrematoides tukerhamatus comb. nov. is considered the senior subjective synonym of Haliotrematoides nagabinae. New host records for some previously described species of Euryhaliotrema from lutjanid and chaetodontid hosts were reported.
RESUMO
Twenty one of 29 species of snappers (Lutjanidae), examined for dactylogyrids (Monogenoidea) from the Red Sea, Persian Gulf, the Indo-west and eastern Pacific Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea were parasitized by 16 new and 11 previously described species of Euryhaliotrema: Euryhaliotrema adelpha sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema anecorhizion sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema cardinale sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema chrysotaeniae, Euryhaliotrema cognatus sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema cryptophallus sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema diplops sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema distinctum sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema fajeravilae sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema fastigatum, Euryhaliotrema fatuum sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema ferocis sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema hainanense, Euryhaliotrema longibaculum, Euryhaliotrema mehen comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema paracanthi, Euryhaliotrema paululum sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema perezponcei, Euryhaliotrema ramulum sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema seyi sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema simplicis sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema spirotubiforum, Euryhaliotrema tormocleithrum sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema torquecirrus, Euryhaliotrema tubocirrus, Euryhaliotrema xinyingense, and Euryhaliotrema youngi sp. nov. Six species of Euryhaliotrema, previously reported from lutjanid hosts, were not collected: Euryhaliotrema anguiformis comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema guangdongense, Euryhaliotrema johni, Euryhaliotrema lutiani, Euryhaliotrema lutjani, and Euryhaliotrema nanaoense comb. nov. The diagnosis of Euryhaliotrema was emended to include species having tandem or slightly overlapping gonads, a pretesticular germarium, a globose haptor with morphologically similar anchors and hooks, a coiled or meandering male copulatory organ, a dextral vaginal pore, and hooks with upright acute thumbs and slender shanks comprised of one subunit. A bulbous base of the MCO and presence of an accessory piece in the copulatory complex were no longer considered features defining the genus. As a result, Euryhaliotrematoides and Aliatrema were placed in subjective synonymy with Euryhaliotrema, and the following transfers were proposed: Euryhaliotrema annulocirrus comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema aspistis comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema berenguelae comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema cribbi comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema grandis comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema mehen comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema microphallus comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema pirulum comb. nov., and Euryhaliotrema triangulovagina comb. nov. In addition, the following new combinations were proposed based on the revised diagnosis of the genus: Euryhaliotrema anguiformis comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema eukurodai comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema kurodai comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema monoporosum comb. nov., and Euryhaliotrema nanaoense comb. nov. The dactylogyrids, Protancyrocephalus rangusi (from a lutjanid host) and Daitreosoma chaetodontis (from a chaetodontid host), were considered species inquirendae. Haliotrematoides tukerhamatus comb. nov. is considered the senior subjective synonym of Haliotrematoides nagabinae. New host records for some previously described species of Euryhaliotrema from lutjanid and chaetodontid hosts were reported.
RESUMO
Twenty one of 29 species of snappers (Lutjanidae), examined for dactylogyrids (Monogenoidea) from the Red Sea, Persian Gulf, the Indo-west and eastern Pacific Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea were parasitized by 16 new and 11 previously described species of Euryhaliotrema: Euryhaliotrema adelpha sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema anecorhizion sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema cardinale sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema chrysotaeniae, Euryhaliotrema cognatus sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema cryptophallus sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema diplops sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema distinctum sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema fajeravilae sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema fastigatum, Euryhaliotrema fatuum sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema ferocis sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema hainanense, Euryhaliotrema longibaculum, Euryhaliotrema mehen comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema paracanthi, Euryhaliotrema paululum sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema perezponcei, Euryhaliotrema ramulum sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema seyi sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema simplicis sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema spirotubiforum, Euryhaliotrema tormocleithrum sp. nov., Euryhaliotrema torquecirrus, Euryhaliotrema tubocirrus, Euryhaliotrema xinyingense, and Euryhaliotrema youngi sp. nov. Six species of Euryhaliotrema, previously reported from lutjanid hosts, were not collected: Euryhaliotrema anguiformis comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema guangdongense, Euryhaliotrema johni, Euryhaliotrema lutiani, Euryhaliotrema lutjani, and Euryhaliotrema nanaoense comb. nov. The diagnosis of Euryhaliotrema was emended to include species having tandem or slightly overlapping gonads, a pretesticular germarium, a globose haptor with morphologically similar anchors and hooks, a coiled or meandering male copulatory organ, a dextral vaginal pore, and hooks with upright acute thumbs and slender shanks comprised of one subunit. A bulbous base of the MCO and presence of an accessory piece in the copulatory complex were no longer considered features defining the genus. As a result, Euryhaliotrematoides and Aliatrema were placed in subjective synonymy with Euryhaliotrema, and the following transfers were proposed: Euryhaliotrema annulocirrus comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema aspistis comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema berenguelae comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema cribbi comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema grandis comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema mehen comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema microphallus comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema pirulum comb. nov., and Euryhaliotrema triangulovagina comb. nov. In addition, the following new combinations were proposed based on the revised diagnosis of the genus: Euryhaliotrema anguiformis comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema eukurodai comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema kurodai comb. nov., Euryhaliotrema monoporosum comb. nov., and Euryhaliotrema nanaoense comb. nov. The dactylogyrids, Protancyrocephalus rangusi (from a lutjanid host) and Daitreosoma chaetodontis (from a chaetodontid host), were considered species inquirendae. Haliotrematoides tukerhamatus comb. nov. is considered the senior subjective synonym of Haliotrematoides nagabinae. New host records for some previously described species of Euryhaliotrema from lutjanid and chaetodontid hosts were reported.
RESUMO
We determined the age and growth of the dog snapper (Lutjanus jocu), caught in the region of Abrolhos Bank, Bahia State, by the fishermen from coastal communities of Prado, Alcobaça, Caravelas, and Nova Viçosa. We examined 205 sectioned otoliths of fish caught by harpoon, longline, hand line, and gill nets (14.5 to 79.5 cm fork length). The formation of each ring was considered annual. The sectioned otoliths showed between 0 and 29 rings. Nearly half of the analyzed specimens had between 0 and 7 rings (88 of 205). Fish caught with nets in the estuarine region were the juvenile, while fish caught with lines and harpoons were the oldest. Two von Bertalanffy growth models were fitted to length-at-age data: one assuming constant variance of length-at-age (SVB) and another assuming constant coefficient of variation, i.e. variance increasing as a function of average size (CVVB). The SVB estimates were Loo = 87.82 cm, K = 0.10, and t0 = -1.486 and the CVVB estimates were Loo = 117.60 cm, K = 0.06, and t0 = -2.470. The largest Loo values estimated by the CVVB model are supported by reports from the literature of larger animals occurring in the deeper outer shelf of Abrolhos Bank. Growth parameters were also estimated for males and females separately (SVB model) (Loo = 92.80 cm, K = 0.099, and t0 = -1.680 for males, and Loo = 82.10 cm, K = 0.105, and t0 = -1.570 for females).
Foi determinada a idade e o crescimento do dentão (Lutjanus jocu) capturado na região do Banco dos Abrolhos, Bahia, pelos pescadores das comunidades costeiras de Prado, Alcobaça, Caravelas e Nova Viçosa. Foram examinados 205 otólitos seccionados de peixes capturados por arpão, espinhel de fundo, linhas e redes de emalhe (14,5-79,5 cm comprimento furcal). A formação de cada anel foi considerada anual. Os otólitos seccionados apresentaram entre 0 e 29 anéis. Cerca de metade dos espécimes analisados teve entre 0 e 7 anéis (88 de 205). Os peixes capturados com redes na região estuarina foram os mais jovens enquanto os peixes capturados com arpões e linha foram os mais velhos. Dois modelos de crescimento de von Bertalanffy foram ajustados aos comprimentos individuais: um assumindo variância constante do comprimento em cada idade (SVB) e outro assumindo coeficiente de variação constante, isto é variância aumentando em função do tamanho médio (CVVB). As estimativas SVB foram (Loo = 87,82 cm, K = 0,105 e t0 = -1,486) e as estimativas CVVB foram Loo = 117,60 cm, K = 0,060 e t0 = -2,470). Os maiores valores de Loo estimados pelo modelo CVVB são sustentados por relatos da literatura de grandes animais encontrados em áreas mais profunda do Banco dos Abrolhos. Os parâmetros de crescimento também foram estimados para machos e fêmeas separadamente (modelo SVB), (Loo = 92,80 cm, K = 0,099 e t0 = -1,680 para machos e Loo = 82,10 cm, K = 0,105 e t0 = -1,570 para fêmeas).
Assuntos
Animais , Membrana dos Otólitos/microbiologiaRESUMO
We determined the age and growth of the dog snapper (Lutjanus jocu), caught in the region of Abrolhos Bank, Bahia State, by the fishermen from coastal communities of Prado, Alcobaça, Caravelas, and Nova Viçosa. We examined 205 sectioned otoliths of fish caught by harpoon, longline, hand line, and gill nets (14.5 to 79.5 cm fork length). The formation of each ring was considered annual. The sectioned otoliths showed between 0 and 29 rings. Nearly half of the analyzed specimens had between 0 and 7 rings (88 of 205). Fish caught with nets in the estuarine region were the juvenile, while fish caught with lines and harpoons were the oldest. Two von Bertalanffy growth models were fitted to length-at-age data: one assuming constant variance of length-at-age (SVB) and another assuming constant coefficient of variation, i.e. variance increasing as a function of average size (CVVB). The SVB estimates were Loo = 87.82 cm, K = 0.10, and t0 = -1.486 and the CVVB estimates were Loo = 117.60 cm, K = 0.06, and t0 = -2.470. The largest Loo values estimated by the CVVB model are supported by reports from the literature of larger animals occurring in the deeper outer shelf of Abrolhos Bank. Growth parameters were also estimated for males and females separately (SVB model) (Loo = 92.80 cm, K = 0.099, and t0 = -1.680 for males, and Loo = 82.10 cm, K = 0.105, and t0 = -1.570 for females).(AU)
Foi determinada a idade e o crescimento do dentão (Lutjanus jocu) capturado na região do Banco dos Abrolhos, Bahia, pelos pescadores das comunidades costeiras de Prado, Alcobaça, Caravelas e Nova Viçosa. Foram examinados 205 otólitos seccionados de peixes capturados por arpão, espinhel de fundo, linhas e redes de emalhe (14,5-79,5 cm comprimento furcal). A formação de cada anel foi considerada anual. Os otólitos seccionados apresentaram entre 0 e 29 anéis. Cerca de metade dos espécimes analisados teve entre 0 e 7 anéis (88 de 205). Os peixes capturados com redes na região estuarina foram os mais jovens enquanto os peixes capturados com arpões e linha foram os mais velhos. Dois modelos de crescimento de von Bertalanffy foram ajustados aos comprimentos individuais: um assumindo variância constante do comprimento em cada idade (SVB) e outro assumindo coeficiente de variação constante, isto é variância aumentando em função do tamanho médio (CVVB). As estimativas SVB foram (Loo = 87,82 cm, K = 0,105 e t0 = -1,486) e as estimativas CVVB foram Loo = 117,60 cm, K = 0,060 e t0 = -2,470). Os maiores valores de Loo estimados pelo modelo CVVB são sustentados por relatos da literatura de grandes animais encontrados em áreas mais profunda do Banco dos Abrolhos. Os parâmetros de crescimento também foram estimados para machos e fêmeas separadamente (modelo SVB), (Loo = 92,80 cm, K = 0,099 e t0 = -1,680 para machos e Loo = 82,10 cm, K = 0,105 e t0 = -1,570 para fêmeas).(AU)
Assuntos
Animais , Membrana dos Otólitos/microbiologiaRESUMO
We determined the age and growth of the dog snapper (Lutjanus jocu), caught in the region of Abrolhos Bank, Bahia State, by the fishermen from coastal communities of Prado, Alcobaça, Caravelas, and Nova Viçosa. We examined 205 sectioned otoliths of fish caught by harpoon, longline, hand line, and gill nets (14.5 to 79.5 cm fork length). The formation of each ring was considered annual. The sectioned otoliths showed between 0 and 29 rings. Nearly half of the analyzed specimens had between 0 and 7 rings (88 of 205). Fish caught with nets in the estuarine region were the juvenile, while fish caught with lines and harpoons were the oldest. Two von Bertalanffy growth models were fitted to length-at-age data: one assuming constant variance of length-at-age (SVB) and another assuming constant coefficient of variation, i.e. variance increasing as a function of average size (CVVB). The SVB estimates were Loo = 87.82 cm, K = 0.10, and t0 = -1.486 and the CVVB estimates were Loo = 117.60 cm, K = 0.06, and t0 = -2.470. The largest Loo values estimated by the CVVB model are supported by reports from the literature of larger animals occurring in the deeper outer shelf of Abrolhos Bank. Growth parameters were also estimated for males and females separately (SVB model) (Loo = 92.80 cm, K = 0.099, and t0 = -1.680 for males, and Loo = 82.10 cm, K = 0.105, and t0 = -1.570 for females).
Foi determinada a idade e o crescimento do dentão (Lutjanus jocu) capturado na região do Banco dos Abrolhos, Bahia, pelos pescadores das comunidades costeiras de Prado, Alcobaça, Caravelas e Nova Viçosa. Foram examinados 205 otólitos seccionados de peixes capturados por arpão, espinhel de fundo, linhas e redes de emalhe (14,5-79,5 cm comprimento furcal). A formação de cada anel foi considerada anual. Os otólitos seccionados apresentaram entre 0 e 29 anéis. Cerca de metade dos espécimes analisados teve entre 0 e 7 anéis (88 de 205). Os peixes capturados com redes na região estuarina foram os mais jovens enquanto os peixes capturados com arpões e linha foram os mais velhos. Dois modelos de crescimento de von Bertalanffy foram ajustados aos comprimentos individuais: um assumindo variância constante do comprimento em cada idade (SVB) e outro assumindo coeficiente de variação constante, isto é variância aumentando em função do tamanho médio (CVVB). As estimativas SVB foram (Loo = 87,82 cm, K = 0,105 e t0 = -1,486) e as estimativas CVVB foram Loo = 117,60 cm, K = 0,060 e t0 = -2,470). Os maiores valores de Loo estimados pelo modelo CVVB são sustentados por relatos da literatura de grandes animais encontrados em áreas mais profunda do Banco dos Abrolhos. Os parâmetros de crescimento também foram estimados para machos e fêmeas separadamente (modelo SVB), (Loo = 92,80 cm, K = 0,099 e t0 = -1,680 para machos e Loo = 82,10 cm, K = 0,105 e t0 = -1,570 para fêmeas).
RESUMO
We determined the age and growth of the dog snapper (Lutjanus jocu), caught in the region of Abrolhos Bank, Bahia State, by the fishermen from coastal communities of Prado, Alcobaça, Caravelas, and Nova Viçosa. We examined 205 sectioned otoliths of fish caught by harpoon, longline, hand line, and gill nets (14.5 to 79.5 cm fork length). The formation of each ring was considered annual. The sectioned otoliths showed between 0 and 29 rings. Nearly half of the analyzed specimens had between 0 and 7 rings (88 of 205). Fish caught with nets in the estuarine region were the juvenile, while fish caught with lines and harpoons were the oldest. Two von Bertalanffy growth models were fitted to length-at-age data: one assuming constant variance of length-at-age (SVB) and another assuming constant coefficient of variation, i.e. variance increasing as a function of average size (CVVB). The SVB estimates were Loo = 87.82 cm, K = 0.10, and t0 = -1.486 and the CVVB estimates were Loo = 117.60 cm, K = 0.06, and t0 = -2.470. The largest Loo values estimated by the CVVB model are supported by reports from the literature of larger animals occurring in the deeper outer shelf of Abrolhos Bank. Growth parameters were also estimated for males and females separately (SVB model) (Loo = 92.80 cm, K = 0.099, and t0 = -1.680 for males, and Loo = 82.10 cm, K = 0.105, and t0 = -1.570 for females).
Foi determinada a idade e o crescimento do dentão (Lutjanus jocu) capturado na região do Banco dos Abrolhos, Bahia, pelos pescadores das comunidades costeiras de Prado, Alcobaça, Caravelas e Nova Viçosa. Foram examinados 205 otólitos seccionados de peixes capturados por arpão, espinhel de fundo, linhas e redes de emalhe (14,5-79,5 cm comprimento furcal). A formação de cada anel foi considerada anual. Os otólitos seccionados apresentaram entre 0 e 29 anéis. Cerca de metade dos espécimes analisados teve entre 0 e 7 anéis (88 de 205). Os peixes capturados com redes na região estuarina foram os mais jovens enquanto os peixes capturados com arpões e linha foram os mais velhos. Dois modelos de crescimento de von Bertalanffy foram ajustados aos comprimentos individuais: um assumindo variância constante do comprimento em cada idade (SVB) e outro assumindo coeficiente de variação constante, isto é variância aumentando em função do tamanho médio (CVVB). As estimativas SVB foram (Loo = 87,82 cm, K = 0,105 e t0 = -1,486) e as estimativas CVVB foram Loo = 117,60 cm, K = 0,060 e t0 = -2,470). Os maiores valores de Loo estimados pelo modelo CVVB são sustentados por relatos da literatura de grandes animais encontrados em áreas mais profunda do Banco dos Abrolhos. Os parâmetros de crescimento também foram estimados para machos e fêmeas separadamente (modelo SVB), (Loo = 92,80 cm, K = 0,099 e t0 = -1,680 para machos e Loo = 82,10 cm, K = 0,105 e t0 = -1,570 para fêmeas).
RESUMO
Reproduction and growth of the fish Lutjanus guttatus (Pisces: Lutjanidae) in the Gulf of Nicoya, Costa Rica. The fish Lutjanus guttatus is important in the fisheries of Golfo de Nicoya, Costa Rica where they are captured with varied gear mainly by the artisanal fleet. We measured specimens from the commercial catch of 2002-2006. Gonadal state was determined macroscopically and age with otoliths The total length-total weight relationship was y = 0.0236x2.8153 and total length-eviscerated weight y = 0.0216x2.8129. Simplified relationships were y = 0.0173x3 and y = 0.0162x3. There is year-round reproduction with peaks in March (dry season) and September (rainy season). Male-female sexual ratio was 1:1. The age-length key for the gulf shows availability until the 6 years of age. The von Bertalanffy growth curve is L (t) = 65,9 (1-e -0,13(t+2,66)). Rev. Biol. Trop. 57 (1-2): 125-131. Epub 2009 June 30.
Una de las pesquerías más importantes en el Golfo de Nicoya es la del pargo mancha (Lutjanus guttatus); su captura se realiza con diversas artes y principalmente por la flota artesanal. Estudiamos especímenes de la captura comercial artesanal entre el 2002 y 2006. Se analizaron las relaciones morfométricas para aplicar la ecuación P = aLb; el análisis del estado de madurez gonadal se hizo macroscópicamente; se determinó la edad a través de la lectura de anillos anuales de los otolitos sagitales y los parámetros de crecimiento fueron aplicados en la ecuación de von Bertalanffy: L (t) = * [1-exp (-K*(t-t0))]. La relación longitud total-peso total es y = 0.0236x 2.8153 y longitud total-peso eviscerado y = 0.0216x2.8129; las relaciones simplificadas correspondientes fueron y = 0.0173x3 y y = 0.0162x3. La reproducción es todo el año con dos picos en marzo y setiembre (época seca y lluviosa, respectivamente). La proporción macho-hembra es 1:1. Se generó para la población del Golfo de Nicoya una clave edad-talla donde su utilidad se presenta como adecuada hasta los 6 años de edad. La curva de crecimiento von Bertalanffy es L (t)=65,9(1-e -0,13(t+2,66)).
Assuntos
Animais , Feminino , Masculino , Perciformes/fisiologia , Reprodução/fisiologia , Costa Rica , Perciformes/crescimento & desenvolvimento , Estações do Ano , Razão de Masculinidade , Maturidade SexualRESUMO
The Lutjanidae or snappers are a family of perciform fishes, mainly marine but with some members living in estuaries and entering fresh water to feed. Some are important food fish. Cytogenetic data for Lutjanidae are scarce. In the present work, we cytogenetically characterized through conventional Giemsa staining techniques, Ag-NOR and C-banding the species Ocyurus chrysurus, Lutjanus analis, L. alexandrei, L. cyanopterus, L. jocu and L. synagris, all found along the Brazilian coast. Karyotype analysis of all six species showed a modal value of 2n = 48 acrocentric chromosomes. Single NORs were found at pericentromeric position on the long arms of the 2nd pair in O. chrysurus, L. alexandrei and L. cyanopterus, on the 5th pair in L. analis and on the 23rd pair in L. synagris. The species L. jocu presented multiple NORs located on the 2nd pair at a pericentromeric region and on the 5th pair at a telomeric region. Heterochromatic blocks were identified at the centromeric region of all chromosomes of the studied species. These results indicate that, despite of the chromosomal stability of this family, a relative structural diversification seems to have occurred in the chromosome evolution of the group. Such diversification was evidenced by divergent number and location of ribosomal sites among species. The NOR-bearing pairs represented an efficient cytotaxonomic marker for most of the analyzed species. The data suggest that the presence of interstitially located single NORs on a large acrocentric pair should represent a basal condition for lutjanids.