Invertebrate larvae in the Chira river estuary, Vichayal, Peru.

Abstract

The species of invertebrate larvae present in the Chira River estuary, Vichayal district, Paita - Piura, were determined. The capture was carried out using two artisanal larval techniques (Avión and Chayo). 3 sampling stations were established (right bank, left bank and main entrance of the estuary). 33 samples were obtained from September 2017 to July 2018, 23 invertebrate larvae are reported, representing 22 species, 16 families, 5 orders and 3 classes and an undetermined species belonging to the Ophiura class. In-situ physicochemical parameters were evaluated, the ambient temperature presented a maximum of 26 °C in February and a minimum of 18.2 °C in October, the surface temperature of the water presented a maximum of 26.1 °C in February and a minimum of 18.5 °C in October and the salinity varied between 18 UPS (station 1) and 5 UPS (station 3). Decapod crustaceans had the highest presence of invertebrate larvae from the Chira River estuary with 78.25%. Temperature and salinity are determining factors for the presence of the larval stages of these organisms in the estuary.