Abstract
The pearlside Maurolicus stehmanni is one of the most abundant mesopelagic fishes off south-eastern Brazil and plays a key role in the regional ecosystem. However, its early life history remains poorly understood. This study examined the M. stehmanni early life stages, from eggs to juveniles, including all developmental changes in external morphology. Larvae are simple in morphology and lack specialized larval structures. Notochord flexion begins at ~5.15 mm body length (BL) and larvae ≥5.95 mm BL are flexed. The relative growth of seven measured larval characters (head length, body depth, snout length, eye diameter, pre-dorsal length, pre-ventral length and pre-anal length) have transition points (allometric inflexion points), indicating biphasic growth patterns which are likely related to shifts in habitat use, feeding and behaviour. Larval development is similar to that of other Maurolicus species. The relatively fast development of the fins, photophores, swimbladder and pigmentation suggests a precocious adoption of a micronektonic lifestyle in the mesopelagic environment.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
