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Coastal embayed areas are important sites for many benthic and nektonic organisms that are being increasingly threatened by habitat degradation. The knowledge on the biology of these organisms can reveal the importance of such areas for their life cycles. Furthermore, population information is also imperative to recognize the importance of these species to structure coastal ecosystems and to provide support to management strategies. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the importance of a coastal embayment area for the generalist predator starfish Astropecten marginatus and Luidia senegalensis, analyzing their spatio-temporal distribution and populational parameters and evaluating whether (1) the species present a differential use of the area, (2) the species use the bay for recruitment, growth and reproduction and (3) there is an ontogenetic or gender related variation in the bay occupation. This study was carried out at Caraguatatuba Bay (SE Brazil), with monthly samples from July/03 to October/04. Although Astropecten was more abundant than Luidia, the two species had similar shifts in abundance, with peaks during cold/dry months, which are partly related to recruitment patterns. Species were distributed mainly towards the southern area of the bay, where A. marginatus had denser aggregations. Both species used the bay for recruitment, growth and reproduction. Males and females of both species occurred in similar numbers (sex ratio 1:1), except in late autumn (May-June) when females became more numerous. An annual reproductive cycle was observed for both species, with spawning occurring mainly in the rainy season, and recruitment mainly during fall/winter. Large individuals (>17 cm) of L. senegalensis were sub-represented in the bay, indicating possible adult migration to deeper areas, whereas A. marginatus had a more resident behavior. Distribution of both species correlated well with diet information previously available, with prey-partitioning suggested as a mechanism that allow their similar occupation of the area, and ontogenetic diet shifts explaining the adult migration of L. senegalensis. This highlights the relevance of feeding information to predict distribution of starfish. Our results elucidate the importance of the studied bay for the life cycle of these keystone species, elucidating species-specific vulnerabilities to coastal degradation and the importance of recognizing populational and distribution parameters in order to inform management policies.

This study evaluated the PAH bioavailability from Santos Bay (Brazil) in 4 species of fish, using PAH biliary metabolites. The collection was done monthly, between July and December, in three different regions of Santos Bay. The metabolites were analyzed through a high performance liquid chromatograph with fluorescence detectors. Total metabolites concentrations ranged from 65.5 to 589 μg g− 1 of bile, evidencing PAH bioavailability on Santos Bay. Levels of phenanthrene and benzo[a]pyrene metabolites were in the classification range of areas moderate contaminated. Those concentrations were lower in Nebris microps and higher in Sphoeroides testudineus (p

Starfish are important predators that may shape rocky shore communities, but their ecological role in unconsolidated substrate communities is still poorly known. We assessed the feeding niche overlap of two sympatric starfish, Astropecten marginatus and Luidia senegalensis , from the shallow subtidal zone in southeastern Brazil. During one year, we conducted monthly samples to compare diet composition, abundance and frequency of occurrence of each food item between species. With 24 of the 34 food items identified in this study consumed by both species, they exhibited generalist behaviors, with a more diverse diet during the warm periods, when the main prey items were abundant. However, A. marginatus showed more variation in abundance of prey consumed over time than L. senegalensis . The diet of A. marginatus consisted primarily of the bivalve Tivela mactroides and L. senegalensis of the bivalve Mulinia cleryana. The size of T. mactroides was positively correlated to the size of A. marginatus , while only small-sized individuals of L. senegalensis consumed this item, the most abundant prey in the area and an important food resource for local the community. The large quantity and variety of items consumed by both species support the structuring role of starfish in subtidal unconsolidated substrate communities, exerting a generalist top-down control, primarily on dominant bivalve populations. Temporal variation in the availability of the main prey may change how selective are both species. The differences in prey composition between species and the ontogenetic differences in prey selectivity by L. senegalensis may attenuate interspecific competition, facilitating their coexistence.

Impacts of the interactive effects of ocean acidification (OA) with other anthropogenic environmental stressors on marine biodiversity are receiving increasing attention in recent years. However, little is known about how organismal responses to OA may be influenced by common phenomena such as autotomy and sexual dimorphism. This study evaluated the long-term (120 days) combined effects of OA (pH 7.7), experimental cheliped amputation and sex on physiological stress (mortality, growth, number of molts, cheliped regeneration and startle response) and energy budget (lipid and calcium contents) in the intertidal sexually-dimorphic hermit crab Pagurus criniticornis. Crabs exposed to OA reduced survivorship (46%), molting frequency (36%) and lipid content (42%). Autotomised crabs and males molted more frequently (39% and 32%, respectively). Males presented higher regeneration (33%) and lower lipid content (24%). The few synergistic effects recorded did not indicate any clear pattern among treatments however, (1) a stronger reduction in lipid content was recorded in non-autotomised crabs exposed to low pH; (2) calcium content was higher in males than females only for autotomised crabs under control pH; and (3) autotomised females showed a proportionally slower activity recovery than autotomised males. Although our results suggest an effect of long-term exposure to low pH on the physiological stress and energy budget of Pagurus criniticornis, the physiological repertoire and plasticity associated with limb regeneration and the maintenance of dimorphism in secondary sexual characters may provide resilience to long-term exposure to OA.

Multiple simultaneous stressors induced by anthropogenic activities may amplify their impacts on marine organisms. The effects of ocean acidification, in combination with other anthropogenic impacts (apart from temperature) are poorly understood, especially in coastal regions. In these areas, shading caused by infrastructure development, such as harbor construction, may potentially interact with CO2-induced pH reduction and affect invertebrate populations. Here, we evaluated the effects of reduced pH (7.6) and shading (24h in darkness) on mortality, growth, calcification and displacement behavior to live predator (danger signal) and dead gastropod (resource availability signal) odors using juveniles of the hermit crab Pagurus criniticornis collected in Araca Bay (Sao Paulo state, Southeastern Brazil). After a 98 day experimental period, both stressors had a significant interaction effect on mortality, and an additive effect on total growth. No difference in calcification was recorded among treatments, indicating that individuals were able to maintain calcification under reduced pH conditions. When exposed to odor of live predators, crab responses were only affected by shading. However, an interactive effect between both stressors was observed in response to gastropod odor, leading to reduced displacement behavior. This study shows how local disturbance impacts may enhance the effects of global environmental change on intertidal crustacean populations.

Top-down control is an important force modulating the abundance of prey and structuring marine communities. The harvested trigonal clam Tivela mactroides is hypothesized to be part of the diet of a variety of marine organisms, with its stock influencing predator abundance and being influenced by them. Here we analyzed the diet of potential predators of T. mactroides in Caraguatatuba Bay, northern coast of Sao Paulo State, Brazil, to identify the main consumers of this marine resource, and also to address the importance of this clam in the diet of each predator. Samples were taken year-round by trawls; all specimens collected were identified and measured and the food items identified and quantified. Twenty-one species consumed T. mactroides , whose importance in the diet varied greatly in both the volume ingested and the frequency of occurrence (pompano Trachinotus carolinus > blue crab Callinectes danae > starfish Astropecten marginatus ). Top-down influence on T. mactroides was also dependent on the abundance of consumers (yellow catfish Cathorops spixii > rake stardrum Stellifer rastrifer > barred grunt Conodon nobilis > A . marginatus ). Considering the mean volume ingested, the frequency of occurrence of T. mactroides in the diet, and the relative abundance of consumers, the predators that most influenced T. mactroides were T . carolinus , A. marginatus , and C . danae , in decreasing order. Large numbers of small-sized individuals of T . mactroides ( A . marginatus , which may have a stronger effect on clam abundance in comparison to C . danae and T . carolinus , which preyed upon larger clams. In conclusion, the results of this study indicate that predators' consumption of T. mactroides in Caraguatatuba Bay can influence its stocks, mainly due to the type and/or abundance of predator species, the volume and number of individuals of T. mactroides preyed upon, and the temporal variations in the abundance of predators.

The impacts of ocean acidification remain less well-studied in starfish compared to other echinoderm groups. This study examined the combined effects of elevated pCO2 and arm regeneration on the performance of the intertidal predatory starfish Asterias rubens, as both are predicted to come at a cost to the individual. A two-way factorial experiment (~400 μatm vs ~1000 μatm; autotomised vs non-automised individuals) was used to examine growth rates, lipid content (pyloric caeca and gonads), and calcium content (body wall) in both intact and regenerating arms, as well as subsequent effects on rate of arm regeneration, righting time (behaviour) and mortality over 120 days. Autotomised individuals tended to show lower (not significant), survival and growth. Elevated pCO2 had no effect on mortality, body growth, arm regeneration, righting time or arm calcium content. Lipid content was higher in the pyloric caeca, but not in the gonads, in response to elevated pCO2 irrespective of autotomisation. The results of the study suggest that adult A. rubens remain unaffected by increased pCO2 and/or arm autotomy for 120 days, although longer term experiments are necessary as the results indicated that survival, growth and calcification may be impaired with longer-term exposure to elevated pCO2.

The a and b parameters of the length-weight relationship (LWR) of the form W = aL b were estimated for 71 species of Actinopterygii and 2 Elasmobranchii, caught in the coastal region and inner shelf of southeastern Brazil. Estimates of b varied from 2.151 to 3.882. For the first time LWR for eight fish species is reported. Significant differences were observed among b values obtained for the same species caught in different ecosystems. Moreover, significant different results for b were observed among species caught in different ecosystems and between sexes of 12 species. Therefore, in order to obtain a reliable biomass estimate it is necessary to choose LWR data close in time and region with estimates for each sex.

The aim of this study is to investigate the presence and the concentration of trace elements in hepatic and renal tissues of white mullet (Mugil curema) by Particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE). Fish specimens were collected in two coastal areas of Sao Paulo state-Brazil: the Santos estuary (from March 2009 to February 2010) and the Cananeia-Iguape coastal estuarine system (from May 2008 to April 2009). For the elemental analysis, n = 470 sample tissues (liver and kidney) were pooled according to location and type of organ. Trace elements such as Fe, Cu, Zn and Br were observed in both tissues of M. curema with concentrations ranging from 800 μg g−1 for Fe to 7 μg g−1 for Cu. The concentrations of Cu and Zn showed statistical significant differences among the tissues of M. curema (p

This study aims at studying the reproductive aspects of Mugil curema in two coastal systems in southeastern Brazil. Samplings were carried out from March 2009 to February 2010 in Santos estuary and from May 2008 to April 2009 in the Cananeia-Iguape coastal system, using gillnet, cast net, and fish trap. Weight and total length were measured and, subsequently, gonads were removed and weighed. Permanent preparations on the ovaries were carried out. The sexual proportion, first gonadal maturation length (L 50), and the quantitative indicators (gonadosomatic index and ΔK) were estimated for all seasons of the year. There was a significant predominance of females (1:2.4) in both areas, and L 50 was estimated at 248.6 mm. The species showed a synchronous oocyte development and the highest values of quantitative indicators were observed at the start and end of the rainy season. The mean potential and relative fecundity of the species was estimated at 350,430 oocytes and 926.46 oocytes/g, respectively, for indivi...

This work aimed to evaluate the use of Mugil curema as a biomonitor for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) bioavailability. Fish biliary metabolites from low-contaminated (Cananeia) and contaminated (Santos) Brazilian estuaries were analysed using a high-performance liquid chromatography apparatus coupled to fluorescence detectors connected in a series. In the Cananeia and Santos estuaries, total metabolite levels ranged from 0.85 to 34.4 μg g− 1 of bile and from 4.06 to 528 μg g− 1 of bile, respectively. Metabolite levels were not influenced by feeding status or sexual hormones (p

Pomadasys corvinaeformis inhabits sandy and rocky bottoms in coastal waters, and is common in trawl samples taken from beaches. The species is very abundant on the Brazilian coast, and is of high economic and ecological importance. This study examined the spatio-temporal distribution, population biology and diet of P. corvinaeformis in Southeastern Brazil. Samples were taken by trawling monthly from August 2003 to October 2004, in two previously selected areas. The Northern area is more exposed to wave activity and is influenced by a river, functioning as a small estuary. In contrast, the Southern area is relatively sheltered from wave energy and influenced to a lesser degree by smaller rivers. The length of the specimens was measured, and the sex and gonadal stage were macroscopically identified. The abundance of this species was compared between areas and among months. The diet was analyzed seasonally by the frequency of occurrence, the percent volume, and the index of alimentary importance. P. corvinaeformis occurred in unequal proportions in the two study areas (86% in the Northern area and 14% in the Southern area) and was found most abundant in May 2004, followed by June 2004. The proportion of mature and in-maturation individuals increased gradually from autumn to summer. Nine major groups of food items were recorded in the diet of P. corvinaeformis, and crustaceans comprised five of the categories: unidentified crustacean fragments, zoea larvae, amphipods, copepods and shrimps. In both, fish stomach and intestine, crustacean fragments were the most frequent item. The second most frequent items were shrimp in the stomach, and amphipods in the intestine (mainly represented by their tubes). These results demonstrate that P. corvinaeformis can be considered a carnivore, with a preference on benthic organisms.

Pomadasys corvinaeformis inhabits sandy and rocky bottoms in coastal waters, and is common in trawl samples taken from beaches. The species is very abundant on the Brazilian coast, and is of high economic and ecological importance. This study examined the spatio-temporal distribution, population biology and diet of P. corvinaeformis in Southeastern Brazil. Samples were taken by trawling monthly from August 2003 to October 2004, in two previously selected areas. The Northern area is more exposed to wave activity and is influenced by a river, functioning as a small estuary. In contrast, the Southern area is relatively sheltered from wave energy and influenced to a lesser degree by smaller rivers. The length of the specimens was measured, and the sex and gonadal stage were macroscopically identified. The abundance of this species was compared between areas and among months. The diet was analyzed seasonally by the frequency of occurrence, the percent volume, and the index of alimentary importance. P. corvinaeformis occurred in unequal proportions in the two study areas (86% in the Northern area and 14% in the Southern area) and was found most abundant in May 2004, followed by June 2004. The proportion of mature and in-maturation individuals increased gradually from autumn to summer. Nine major groups of food items were recorded in the diet of P. corvinaeformis, and crustaceans comprised five of the categories: unidentified crustacean fragments, zoea larvae, amphipods, copepods and shrimps. In both, fish stomach and intestine, crustacean fragments were the most frequent item. The second most frequent items were shrimp in the stomach, and amphipods in the intestine (mainly represented by their tubes). These results demonstrate that P. corvinaeformis can be considered a carnivore, with a preference on benthic organisms.

This study evaluated the spatio-temporal distribution, reproduction and diet of the catfishes Genidens genidens, G. barbus and Aspistor luniscutis in Caraguatatuba Bay. Their sizes were recorded and the sex and reproductive stage identified. The abundance was compared between areas (South and North) and among months (August 2003 - October 2004). The species had different spatial distributions, allowing them to coexist. The temporal distribution reflected their tendencies to migrate in the reproductive period, as evidenced by the dominance of small immature individuals in the bay. G. genidens tended to reproduce in winter, and A. luniscutis in spring. The diet of G. genidens consisted of crustaceans, mollusks (shells), fish scales, ostracods, and bivalve siphons. G. barbus consumed a high proportion of mysids, followed by fish (bones and scales). For A. luniscutis, the diet was based on fish scales and crustaceans. High quantities of particulate organic matter were observed in the diet of all three species, as previously known for estuarine catfishes. The consumption of fish scales may reflect a lepidophagic habit. A small overlap was observed among the diets, reflecting differences in their environments as well as in the proportions of each item ingested.

This study evaluated the spatio-temporal distribution, population biology and diet of Menticirrhus americanus in Caraguatatuba Bay. Samples were taken monthly between August 2003 and October 2004, by trawling in two previously selected areas. The northern area is more exposed to wave activity and is influenced by a river, functioning as a small estuary. In contrast, the southern area is relatively sheltered from wave energy and influenced to a lesser degree by smaller rivers. The fishes' length was measured, and the sex and gonadal stage macroscopically identified. The abundance of this species was compared between areas and among months. The diet was identified and quantified. M. americanus occurred in equal proportions in the two study areas, being most abundant in April 2004, followed by December 2003 and January 2004. The population was dominated by small immature individuals. The few individuals in maturation or mature that were captured showed no seasonal pattern of distribution. This species had a varied diet, feeding on worms (nemerteans, sipunculans and echiurans), mollusks (bivalves and cephalopods), polychaetes, crustaceans and fish. The presence of intact nematodes in the intestine suggests that these are parasites. The results demonstrated that M. americanus has a homogeneous spatial and temporal distribution in Caraguatatuba Bay, being uniformly distributed between the south and north areas as well as across the months. This species can be considered a carnivorous predator, showing a preference for consuming benthic sandy-beach species such as glycerids and other polychaetes, crustaceans, and bivalve siphons.Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a distribuição espaço-temporal, biologia populacional e dieta de Menticirrhus americanus da baía de Caraguatatuba. Foram realizadas coletas mensais entre agosto de 2003 a outubro de 2004, utilizando redes de arrasto em duas áreas previamente selecionadas. A área norte é mais expostas à atividade de onda e é influenciada por um rio, constituindo um pequeno estuário. Por outro lado, a área sul é relativamente protegida da energia das ondas e sofre pouca influência dos rios. Os indivíduos coletados foram medidos e identificados macroscopicamente quanto ao sexo e o estádio gonadal. A abundância da espécie foi comparada entre as áreas e entre os meses de coleta. Para a dieta os itens alimentares encontrados foram identificados e quantificados. M. americanus apresentou proporções equivalentes nas duas áreas de estudo, sendo mais abundante em abril de 2004, seguido por dezembro de 2003 e janeiro de 2004. A população região é composta por indivíduos imaturos, e os poucos indivíduos maduros ou em maturação capturados não apresentaram padrão de distribuição ao longo do ano. A espécie mostrou uma dieta variada, alimentando-se de vermes (nemertideos, sipúnculos e equiúros), moluscos (bivalves e cefalópodes), poliquetas, crustáceos e peixes. A presença de nematóides intactos na porção do intestino sugere uma relação parasitária. Os resultados demonstraram que os indivíduos de Menticirrhus americanus estiveram uniformemente distribuídos nas áreas norte e sul e também ao longo do ano. A espécie pode ser considerada predadora e carnívora, mostrando preferência na alimentação por espécies bentônicas de fundos não consolidados, tais como geicerídeos e outros poliquetas, crustáceos e sifões de bivalves.

O presente estudo teve como objetivo principal compreender a dinâmica populacional de Mugil curema em duas regiões distintas, tanto sob o ponto de vista oceanográfico como no de ocupação humana, e os possíveis impactos antrópicos no ciclo de vida da espécie. As amostras foram coletadas mensalmente no período de março/09 a fevereiro/10 no estuário de Santos e no período de maio/08 a abril/2009 no sistema costeiro Cananéia-Iguape, utilizando rede de abalo, rede de tarrafa e cerco fixo. Em laboratório os indivíduos coletados foram medidos (mm), pesados (g) e dissecados, para a retirada das gônadas, fígado, rim e otólitos para futuras analises. Os indivíduos de Mugil curema do estuário de Santos e do sistema costeiro Cananéia-Iguape, litoral do estado de São Paulo, Brasil, foram classificadas como pertencentes ao mesmo estoque, não existindo diferenças na estrutura em tamanho, na estrutura etária e na época de desova desses indivíduos. Também foi constatado altos valores do índice de lesões histológicas e da atividade EROD no tecido do fígado e altos níveis de bioacumulação de metais (bromo, cobre, cromo, ferro e zinco) nos tecidos do fígado e rim da espécie nas duas áreas estudadas. Todas as variáveis estimadas não apresentaram diferenças significativas entre as duas áreas de estudo. The present study has mainly aimed at understanding the population dynamic of Mugil curema from two distinct areas at coast of the state of São Paulo (Brazil), both from oceanographic and human occupation point of view. Samples were collected monthly between March/09 and February/10 of the Santos estuary and between May/08 and April/09 of the Cananéia-Iguape coastal system using gillnet, seine net and fish trap. Collected individuals were measured (mm), weighted (g) and dissected for removal of gonads, liver, kidney and otoliths for further analysis. Specimens of Mugil curema from Santos estuary and Cananéia-Iguape costal system were classified as belonging to the same stock, since the results showed no difference in structure, size, age structure and spawning season. High values of the histological lesions index and EROD activity in the liver tissue as well as increased levels of bioaccumulation of metals (bromine, copper, chromium, iron and zinc) in the liver and kidney tissues were also found. All of the estimated variables for Mugil curema were not significantly different between the two regions.

The community structure and dynamics as well as some biological parameters of selected species of the ichthyofauna of the Mataripe estuarine region affected by the Landulfo Alves Oil Refinery (RLAM) were analyzed. Twenty stations were sampled with a gillnet in five different periods: August and December 2003, March and July/August 2004 and January 2005. Thirty-five actinopterygian species and one elasmobranch species were recorded, Oligoplites saurus, Diapterus rhombeus, Lutjanus synagris and Scomberomorus brasiliensis among them, on all the campaigns. A total of 1368 specimens, weighing 36.10 kg, were caught. The ichthyofauna total biomass was greater, in weight, on the eastern side of the study region, especially at the stations close to the shoals/reefs and the rocky bottom. A similar pattern was also observed for the diversity values. In general, low evenness and diversity were observed in the area studied, possibly as a result of the fishing gear used. D. rhombeus juveniles dominated in all but one of the samplings (July 2004), in which latter Cyclichthys spinosus was dominant. Carangids and species associated with consolidated bottoms were observed, although in small numbers, throughout the study period. In spite of the limitations imposed by the gear used for sampling, the estuarine area influenced by the RLAM was seen to play a role as a growth area for the great majority of species, especially the mojarra (D. rhombeus), but it offers no fishing potential due to the prevalence of young and small individuals. Evidence of imminent spawning was recorded for Pomadasys corvinaeformis in August 2003, and recent spawning in March 2004 for Oligoplites saurus. Further, mature individuals occurred in insufficient numbers to permit population level evaluation.A estrutura e dinâmica da ictiofauna amostrada na região estuarina de Mataripe sob a influência da Refinaria Landulpho Alves-Mataripe (RLAM) foi analisada. Vinte estações foram amostradas com rede-de-abalo em cinco períodos: agosto e dezembro de 2003, março e julho/agosto de 2004 e em janeiro de 2005. Foi verificada a ocorrência de 35 espécies de actinopterígios e uma de elasmobrânquio, sendo que Oligoplites saurus, Diapterus rhombeus, Lutjanus synagris e Scomberomorus brasiliensis ocorreram em todas as campanhas. Um total de 1368 espécimes, pesando 36,10 kg, foram capturados. A biomassa total da ictiofauna foi maior no lado leste da região estudada, especialmente nas estações próximas de coroas/recifes e fundos consolidados. Um padrão similar foi também observado para os valores de diversidade. De maneira geral, baixa equitatividade e diversidade foram observadas na área de estudo, possivelmente como o resultado da rede utilizada. Ocorreu a dominância de formas juvenis de Diapterus rhombeus em todas as campanhas exceto uma (julho de 2004), quando Cyclichthys spinosus foi a espécie dominante. Embora em pequeno número, a presença de carangídeos e espécies associadas a fundos consolidados foi observada durante todo o período de estudo. Apesar das limitações impostas pelo aparelho de coleta, o papel da região estuarina sob a influência da RLAM, durante os períodos amostrados, foi classificado como área de crescimento para a maioria das espécies, principalmente a carapeba (D. rhombeus), não oferecendo potencial pesqueiro, dada a ocorrência de indivíduos jovens e de pequeno porte. Evidência de desova iminente foi relatada para Pomadasys corvinaeformis em agosto de 2003, e de desova recente em março de 2004 para Oligoplites saurus, somando-se a indivíduos maduros ocorrendo em números não-representativos para uma avaliação em nível populacional.

The aim of this study was to analyze the distribution and abundance of the fish fauna of Palmas bay on Anchieta Island in southeastern Brazil. Specimens were caught in the summer and winter of 1992, using an otter trawl at three locations in the bay. The specimens were caught in both the nighttime and daytime. Data on the water temperature and salinity were recorded for the characterization of the predominant water mass in the region, and sediment samples were taken for granulometric analysis. A total of 7 656 specimens (79 species), with a total weight of approximately 300 kg, were recorded. The most abundant species were Eucinostomus argenteus, Ctenosciaena gracilicirrhus, Haemulon steindachneri, Eucinostomus gula and Diapterus rhombeus, which together accounted for more than 73% of the sample. In general, the ecological indices showed no differences in the composition of species for the abiotic variables analyzed. The multivariate analysis showed that the variations in the distribution of the fish fauna were mainly associated with intra-annual differences in temperature and salinity, resulting from the presence of South Atlantic Central Water (SACW) in the area during the summer. The analysis also showed an association with the type of bottom and a lesser association with respect to the night/day periods.Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar a composição e a abundância da fauna de peixes provenientes da enseada Palmas em Ubatuba, costa sudeste do Brasil. Os espécimes foram obtidos no verão e no inverno de 1992, utilizando-se uma rede de arrasto de fundo em três locais da enseada. Os arrastos foram realizados no período noturno e no período diurno. Foram obtidos dados de temperatura e salinidade da água para caracterização da massa de água predominante na região e amostras do sedimento para análise granulométrica. Foram capturadas 79 espécies de Actinopterygii, representadas por 7 656 indivíduos com peso total aproximado de 300 kg. As espécies mais abundantes foram Eucinostomus argenteus, Ctenosciaena gracilicirrhus, Haemulon steindachneri, Eucinostomus gula e Diapterus rhombeus e representaram mais de 73% da amostra. Os índices ecológicos utilizados, de uma maneira geral, não mostraram diferenças na composição das espécies quanto às variáveis abióticas analisadas. A análise multivariada empregada mostrou que as variações encontradas na distribuição da fauna de peixes foram associadas principalmente às diferenças intra-anuais de temperatura e salinidade, relacionadas à presença da Água Central do Atlântico Sul no verão na área de estudo. A análise também mostrou uma associação em relação ao tipo de fundo e uma menor associação em relação aos períodos do ciclo noite/dia.

In the present study Cathorops spixii, was evaluated as a bioindicator fish for trace metal pollution. Concentrations of cobalt (Co), iron (Fe), selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) were determined by Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis in liver. Mercury (Hg) and methyl-mercury (MeHg) were analyzed by Cold Vapor Atomic Absorption Spectrometry in muscles and livers. High concentrations of Co, Fe, Se and Zn were observed in C. spixii from Santos Bay in comparison to fish collected in a non-polluted site in the same Brazilian coast. These trace metal concentrations were out of the permissible levels for human consumption. Although, Hg and MeHg levels were low, the C. spixii could still be used as an effective bioindicator to observe trace metal behaviors in the environment in function of the bioaccumulation process observed mainly by other analyzed trace metals. Thus, the use of this species is strongly recommended to monitor the effects and behavior of trace metal pollution in aquatic ecosystems in Brazil due to its bioaccumulation function.

O presente estudo analisou aspectos do ciclo de vida e níveis de metais em Atherinella brasiliensis da praia de Itamambuca, Ubatuba (SP). As coletas foram mensais, nos períodos diurno e noturno, de setembro de 2003 a fevereiro de 2005, em quatro estações na praia e uma no rio Itamambuca, utilizando-se picaré. Os indivíduos migram diariamente para dentro do rio no período noturno. O melhor ajuste ao modelo de von Bertalanffy (CT= 164,85*(1-e-2,16(t+0,0038))) e à longevidade (A0,95= 1,378 ano) foi obtido pelo método de Ford-Walford. O índice de performance de crescimento e a mortalidade variaram de 2,77 a 2,91 e 1,64 a 1,82 ano-1, respectivamente. O valor de L50 estimado para sexos agrupados foi 86,6 mm, e os de RGS, DK e a freqüência de desovantes sugerem desova durante todo o ano, com maior intensidade do final da primavera até início do outono. A desova é parcelada, com alta freqüência e em pequenos lotes. Altas concentrações de Cr, Fe e Zn foram detectadas na musculatura, sendo maiores em indivíduos jovens e na alta temporada turística. Pode-se concluir que o peixe-rei passa todo seu ciclo de vida na praia de Itamambuca, apresenta altas taxas de crescimento e mortalidade natural, e desova ao longo de todo o ano. The present study analyzed the life history and metal levels of Atherinella brasiliensis from Itamambuca beach, Ubatuba (SP). Surveys were conducted monthly, in diurnal and nocturnal periods, between September 2003 and February 2005, in four stations at the beach and one at the Itamambuca river, using beach seine. Individuals showed daily migration into the river at nocturnal period. The better adjustment to von Bertalanffy?s model (Lt = 164.85*(1-e-2.16(t+0.0038))) and to longevity (A0.95= 1.378 year) was obtained through Ford-Walford method. The value of estimated L50 for grouped gender was 86.6 mm, and the GSR, the DK and the spawning frequency suggest spawning during all year around, with higher intensity in late spring until middle autumn. The high frequency of spawning and the low batch fecundity indicate that the species is a batch spawner. High concentrations of Cr, Fe and Zn were detected in musculature, being higher among young individuals, and during tourist high season. In conclusion, the Brazilian silverside spends its life cycle on the Itamambuca beach, shows high growth and natural mortality rates, and spawning throughout the year.

There are few environmental studies using biomarkers for the species Atherinella brasiliensis in Brazil. In the present work, the presence of hepatic histopathological lesions and nuclear abnormalities in erythrocytes were investigated in A. brasiliensis from Lamberto, a beach under influence of domestic wastes and marine activities. For comparison, fish were also sampled in Puruba, a non-polluted beach, located in the northeastern of São Paulo State. The frequency of lesions found in liver was in higher numbers in individuals from Lamberto than Puruba beach. The most critical injuries observed in A. brasiliensis were the presence of necrotic areas, leucocytes infiltration and piknotic nucleus. A high occurrence of cells with vacuolization was also observed. The hepatic lesion index of the fish from Lamberto beach showed significant high values (Iorg=13) when compared with fish from Puruba beach (Iorg=7) suggesting the influence of the several human activities in the studied site. Notched and blebed nucleous were observed in this study, and significant differences were found between the studied sites. However, these differences did not reflect the total nuclear alterations.Existem poucos estudos no Brasil usando biomarcadores em Atherinella brasiliensis. No presente trabalho foram investigadas a presença de lesões histopatológicas hepáticas e as alterações nucleares em eritrócitos de A. brasiliensis amostrados na praia do Lamberto, local submetido à influência de resíduos domésticos e atividades humanas. Para comparação, indivíduos da espécie foram também amostrados na praia de Puruba, local não impactado, localizado no noroeste do estado de São Paulo. Peixes provenientes da praia do Lamberto apresentaram lesões hepáticas em número maior do que aqueles da praia de Puruba. Áreas necróticas, infiltração de leucócitos e núcleos picnóticos foram os danos de maior importância observados em A. brasiliensis, apesar de uma elevada ocorrência de vacuolização também ter sido verificada. O índice de lesão hepática dos peixes da praia do Lamberto mostrou valores significantemente maiores (Iorg=13) quando comparados com o dos peixes da praia de Puruba (Iorg=7), sugerindo influência das diversas atividades humanas existentes na área avaliada. Em relação aos núcleos "notched" e "blebed", foram observadas diferenças significativas entre as áreas, mas não para as alterações nucleares totais.

Estressores múltiplos, decorrentes de atividades antropogênicas, podem gerar efeitos combinados em organismos marinhos. Efeitos da acidificação oceânica associados a outros impactos antrópicos são pouco compreendidos, especialmente em zonas costeiras. Nestas regiões, o sombreamento causado por infraestruturas, como portos, pode potencialmente interagir com a redução do pH da água do mar e afetar populações de crustáceos. O objetivo foi avaliar os efeitos de pH reduzido e sombreamento na mortalidade, crescimento, calcificação e respostas comportamentais de deslocamento a odores de predadores vivos (sinal de perigo) e gastrópodes mortos (sinal de recurso disponível) usando juvenis do ermitão Pagurus criniticornis, coletados na Baía do Araçá (São Paulo, SE Brasil). Após 98 dias de experimento, os estressores apresentaram interação significativa sobre a mortalidade dos organismos, além de efeito aditivo sobre o crescimento. A calcificação não diferiu entre tratamentos, indicando que indivíduos foram capazes de manter a calcificação em condições de pH reduzido. Quando expostos a odor de predadores, o deslocamento dos ermitões foi afetado somente pelo sombreamento. Entretanto, uma interação entre ambos os estressores foi observada para o odor de gastrópodes, causando a redução do deslocamento. Este estudo mostra como impactos locais podem amplificar efeitos de mudanças ambientais globais em populações de crustáceos do entremarés. Multiple stressors due to anthropogenic activities may cause combined impacts in marine organisms. Effects of ocean acidification associated with other anthropogenic impacts are poorly understood, especially in coastal regions. In these areas, shading caused by infrastructure development, such as harbor construction, may potentially interact with CO2-induced pH reduction and affect invertebrate populations. Here we evaluated reduced pH and shading effects on mortality, growth, calcification and displacement behavior to live predator (danger signal) and dead gastropod (resource availability signal) odors using juveniles of the hermit crab Pagurus criniticornis collected in Araçá Bay (São Paulo state, SE Brazil). After a 98 days experiment period, both stressors had a significant interaction on mortality and an additive effect on total growth. No difference in calcification was recorded among treatments, indicating that individuals were able to maintain calcification under reduced pH. When exposed to odor of live predators, crabs\' responses were affected only by shading. However, an interactive effect between both stressors was observed in response to gastropod odor, leading to reduced displacement behavior. This study shows how local disturbance impacts may enhance effects of global environmental changes on intertidal crustacean populations.