Hábitos alimentares e aspectos populacionais do saramunete (Pseudupeneus maculatus (Bloch, 1793)) na costa nordeste do Brasil

Abstract

The spotted goatfish Pseudupeneus maculatus is an important fishery resource in the northeast region of Brazil, as well as an important component for the biodiversity. There are few published data about spatial distribution and feeding habits of the spotted goatfish. Thus, this study aimed evaluate population aspects, feeding habits and distribution patterns of the spotted goatfish along the northeast coast of Brazil. Sampling was performed in two scientific cruises along the northeast coast, between the states of Rio Grande do Norte and Alagoas. 3 major habitats were identified (Sand with coralline rocks, Algae coverage and Sand coverage), 2 levels of shelf position (inner shelf and outer shelf) and the latitude gradient (5-9°S). Distribution patterns were evaluated by using capture rates (CPUE – kg/km²) and length frequency. 291 of the 505 individuals caught were taken to laboratory to further analysis. The length at first maturity was estimated as 13.7 cm of standard length and growth was classified as negative alometric for females, isometric for males and isometric for pooled sexes. Standard length varied from 4.4 to 23.8 cm, and the most frequent length class was 16-18 cm (29%). Condition factor k varied along the latitude gradient, with higher values in the northern areas, especially compared to the southern areas. Feeding activity was classified as diurnal and the feeding intensity FI was higher in the southern areas. P. maculatus feeds mainly by crustaceans (shrimps, brachyurans and stomatopods) but also by polychaetas and Teleostei fish. It classifies the spotted goatfish as a zoobenthic predator. Significant differences were identified in the length frequency distribution, with high presence of juveniles in coralline habitats and larger individuals more abundant near the shelf break. CPUE analysis revealed high abundance in the north of Pernambuco, where is located the largest fisheries for the spotted goatfish. Also, high CPUE was identified in the southern habitats, were is located the MPA “APA Costa dos Corais”, that probably contributes for the high abundance.