Reproductive biology of the fat snook Centropomus parallelus Poey, 1860 (Teleostei, Centropomidae) and implications for its management in the southern Atlantic Ocean.

Abstract

The reproductive biology of Centropomus parallelus was described from 589 individuals captured in estuarine and coastal waters in Southern Brazil. Length-frequency distribution showed the dominance of males in smaller length-classes (132-290 mm LT ), whereas females were dominant in larger length-classes (>290 mm LT ). Total length at maturity (L50 ) was 180 mm LT and corresponded to 29% of the maximum length recorded. Histological sections revealed one hermaphrodite (205 mm LT ) and few immature females. Life history traits provided herein can contribute to sustainable fisheries management practices.