RESUMEN Antecedentes. En México, la pesquería de pargos del Golfo de México contribuye con el 30% de las capturas nacionales de este recurso a través de una pesquería multiespecífica en la que, el huachinango Lutjanus campechanus (Poey, 1890), la rubia Ocyurus chrysurus (Bloch, 1791) y la villajaiba Lutjanus synagris (Linnaeus, 1758) son las principales especies objetivo. Objetivos. Con el fin de evaluar el estado de las poblaciones de las tres principales especies de pargos y calcular puntos de referencia para el manejo de estas pesquerías en el Golfo de México. Métodos. Se utilizaron registros históricos de desembarques en la aplicación del método Monte Carlo (C-MSY). Los puntos de referencia estimados incluyeron: Captura al Máximo Rendimiento Sostenible (MSY), biomasa asociada al MSY (BMSY ) y Mortalidad por Pesca asociada al MSY (FMSY ). Resultados. Los valores más probables de la máxima tasa intrínseca de crecimiento poblacional (r) y capacidad de carga de cada población (k) obtenidos por el método C-MSY fueron, para L. campechanus 0.56 y 35,109 t; para O. chrysurus 0.56 y 13,814 t; y para L. synagris 0.55 y 1,932 t. Los valores de MSY encontrados fueron de 4,964 t, 1,953 t y 269 t respectivamente, mientras que los valores de BMSY fueron 17,554 t, 6,907 t y 966 t respectivamente. Finalmente, los valores de FMSY fueron de 0.28 para L. campechanus y O. chrysurus, y 0.27 para L. synagris. Conclusiones. Este estudio muestra que solo la población de L. synagris se encuentra sobrepescada, mientras que la población de O. chrysurus es la única experimentando sobrepesca. Con el fin de mantener la población de L. campechanus en niveles saludables, se recomienda una captura total anual permisible (TAC) de 4,467 t. Para reducir la sobrepesca y mantener la población de O. chrysurus en niveles saludables, se recomienda una TAC de 1,562 t. Finalmente, para reconstruir la población de L. synagris y prevenir su sobrepesca, se recomienda una TAC de 215 t.

ABSTRACT Background. In Mexico, the Gulf of Mexico snapper’s fishery contributes 30% of the national snapper landings through a multi-species fishery where red Lutjanus campechanus (Poey, 1890), yellowtail Ocyurus chrysurus (Bloch, 1791) and lane Lutjanus synagris (Linnaeus, 1758) are the main target species. Goals. To evaluate the stock status of the three main species and to calculate reference points: Catch at Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY), Biomass associated with MSY (BMSY ) and Fishing Mortality associated with MSY (FMSY ) for the management of these fisheries in the Gulf of Mexico. Historical official landings records were used in the application of the Monte Carlo method C-MSY. Results. The most probable maximum intrinsic rate of population increase (r) and carrying capacity of environment population (k) values for the C-MSY method were for L. campechanus 0.56 and 35,109 t, for O. chrysurus 0.56 and 13,814 t; and for L. synagris 0.55 and 1,932 t. MSY values found were 4,964 t, 1,953 t and 269 t respectively. BMSY values were 17,554 t, 6,907 t and 966 t respectively. FMSY values were 0.28 for L. campechanus and O. chrysurus, and 0.27 for L. synagris. Conclusions. This study shows that only the L. synagris stock is overfished, while O. chrysurus is the only stock experiencing overfishing. To maintain the L. campechanus stock at healthy levels we recommend a total allowable catch (TAC) of 4,467 t per year. To reduce overfishing and maintain the O. chrysurus stock at healthy levels we recommend a TAC of 1,562 t. Finally, to rebuild the L. synagris stock and prevent overfishing, we recommend a TAC of 215 t.

ABSTRACT: This article presents an experimental study to verify the feasibility of using the emerging UAV technology in the mapping of fishing grounds exploited by artisanal fishing in Sepetiba Bay, in the south of the state of Rio de Janeiro-Brazil, aiming to better understand the functionality and information generated by the equipment, and whether the data can help improve local fisheries management and also provide information for the implementation of simplified traceability for regional fish. The study area included four locations, Ilha da Madeira, Vila Geny, Coroa Grande and Ponte Preta, all located in Sepetiba Bay, located in the municipality of Itaguaí, in the southern region of the state of Rio de Janeiro. The aerial mapping was carried out in September, October and November 2017, between 10 am and 12 pm (GMT-3), employing a Phantom 3 Professional UAV (DJI, Shenzhen, China), Anac Brasil registration number PP-011092014. The onboard camera a DJI 4K Edition Sony Exmor R Model IMX117: 7.81mm equipped with a CMOS sensor dimension of 6.2 mm, 4000 x 3000 12 megapixel resolution, with an f/2.8 lens and field of view (FOV) of 94, having a focal length of 14mm. Images were collected perpendicularly to the main plan. Flight height was set at 80 m, flight speed was determined based on the overlap of 80%, dimension of area to be mapped, and battery life. Hence, the operator utilized a average flight speed of 25 km/h. ground sample distance (GSD) was 1.20 cm/px. and an overlap of 80% between images was established to avoid possible failures and orthomosaic information gaps. For each fishery mapped, standard software processing was carried out, which consists of: aligning the photos, creating a point cloud, creating a digital elevation model, and finally the orthomosaic itself. Once processed, the orthomosaics were exported from Agis Soft Photo Scan Professional to Google Earth (Google Inc.), where it is possible to make a more comprehensive assessment of fisheries in a much more practical and faster way. A total of four flights were carried out, one for each study area, averaging 10 minutes each. As a result, the technology proved to be viable to apply, since it made it possible to identify and map the areas defined for this research, generating data such as distance and, characteristics of the place, which could be used to track the fish caught and landed, in addition to enabling the monitoring of vessels and fishing, and thus improve the management of local fisheries. ABSTRACT Bay JaneiroBrazil, JaneiroBrazil Janeiro Brazil, Brazil Janeiro-Brazil equipment locations Madeira Geny Preta Itaguaí September 2017 1 GMT3, GMT3 GMT , (GMT-3) DJI, (DJI Shenzhen China, China China) PP011092014. PP011092014 PP 011092014. 011092014 PP-011092014 K IMX117 IMX 781mm mm 7 81mm 62 6 2 6. 400 300 resolution f28 f 8 f/2. FOV (FOV 94 14mm plan m mapped life Hence kmh km h km/h GSD (GSD 120 20 1.2 cmpx cm px cm/px gaps photos cloud model itself processed Inc., Inc Inc. Inc.) way result apply research place landed 201 (GMT-3 PP01109201 01109201 PP-01109201 IMX11 40 30 f2 f/2 9 1. (GMT- PP0110920 0110920 PP-0110920 IMX1 4 f/ (GMT PP011092 011092 PP-011092 PP01109 01109 PP-01109 PP0110 0110 PP-0110 PP011 011 PP-011 PP01 01 PP-01 PP0 0 PP-0 PP-

RESUMO: Este artigo apresenta um estudo experimental para verificar a viabilidade de uso da tecnologia emergente UAV no mapeamento dos pesqueiros explotados pela pesca artesanal na Baía de Sepetiba, no sul do estado do Rio de Janeiro-Brasil, visando conhecer melhor a funcionalidade e informações geradas pelo equipamento, e se os dados poderão auxiliar na melhoria do gerenciamento da pesca local e também subsidiar informações para a implantação de uma rastreabilidade simplificada para o pescado regional. A área de estudo contemplou quatro localidades sendo Ilha da Madeira, Vila Geny, Coroa Grande e Ponte Preta, todas inseridas na Baía de Sepetiba, localizada no município de Itaguaí, região sul do estado do Rio de Janeiro. O mapeamento aéreo foi realizado nos meses de setembro, outubro e novembro de 2017, entre 10h e 12h (GMT-3), utilizando um VANT Phantom 3 Professional (DJI, Shenzhen, China), registro Anac Brasil PP-011092014. A câmera integrada é uma DJI 4K Edition Sony Exmor R Modelo IMX117: 7,81 mm equipada com sensor CMOS de 6,2 mm, resolução 4000 x 3000 de 12 megapixels, com lente f/2.8 e campo de visão (FOV) de 94, possuindo uma distância focal de 14 mm. As imagens foram coletadas perpendicularmente ao plano principal. A altura de voo foi fixada em 80 m, a velocidade de voo foi determinada com base na sobreposição de 80%, dimensão da área a ser mapeada e duração da bateria. Assim, o operador utilizou uma velocidade média de voo de 25 km/h. a distância da amostra terrestre (GSD) foi de 1,20 cm/px. e foi estabelecida uma sobreposição de 80% entre as imagens para evitar possíveis falhas e lacunas de informações do ortomosaico. Para cada pesqueiro mapeado foi realizado o processamento padrão do software, que consiste em: alinhamento das fotos, criação da nuvem de pontos, criação de modelo de elevação digital, e finalmente o ortomosaico propriamente dito. Uma vez processado, os ortomosaicos foram exportados do Agis Soft Photo Scan Professional para o Google Earth (Google Inc.), onde é possível fazer uma avaliação mais abrangente dos pesqueiros de uma maneira muito mais prática e rápida. Foram realizados um total de quatro voos, um para cada área de estudo, com duração média de 10 minutos cada. Como resultado, a tecnologia mostrou-se viável de aplicação, uma vez que possibilitou identificar e mapear as áreas definidas para nesta pesquisa, gerando dados como distância e características do local, que poderão ser utilizados para rastrear o pescado capturado e desembarcado, além de possibilitar o monitoramento das embarcações e da pesca e assim, aprimorar o gerenciamento da pesca local. RESUMO Sepetiba JaneiroBrasil, JaneiroBrasil Janeiro Brasil, Janeiro-Brasil equipamento regional Madeira Geny Preta Itaguaí setembro 2017 h GMT3, GMT3 GMT , (GMT-3) DJI, (DJI Shenzhen China, China China) PP011092014. PP011092014 PP 011092014. 011092014 PP-011092014 K IMX117 IMX 781 7 81 7,8 62 6 2 6, 400 300 1 megapixels f28 f 8 f/2. FOV (FOV 94 principal m bateria Assim kmh km km/h GSD (GSD 120 20 1,2 cmpx cm px cm/px software fotos pontos digital dito processado Inc., Inc Inc. Inc.) rápida voos resultado mostrouse mostrou aplicação pesquisa desembarcado assim 201 (GMT-3 PP01109201 01109201 PP-01109201 IMX11 78 7, 40 30 f2 f/2 9 1, (GMT- PP0110920 0110920 PP-0110920 IMX1 4 f/ (GMT PP011092 011092 PP-011092 PP01109 01109 PP-01109 PP0110 0110 PP-0110 PP011 011 PP-011 PP01 01 PP-01 PP0 0 PP-0 PP-

ABSTRACT In this study, the length-weight relationships (LWRs) and length-length relationships (LLRs) of 16 marine fish species-important component of fishery production models-were estimated. The specimens were collected monthly from commercial gillnet fisheries from November 6, 2018 to October 30, 2019 in Vietnamese waters. In total, 7,426 individuals had their total length (TL), fork length (FL) and total body weight (W) measured. LWRs were calculated using the logarithmic transformation of the linear regression equation logW = loga + b*logTL, while LLRs were determined using a linear regression model: TL = a + b*FL. In addition, 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated for the model parameters. The results showed that all regression parameters were highly significant (p < 0.001), with coefficients of determinations (R 2 ) > 0.9412 for all species. The a (intercept) values ranged from 0.0025 to 0.4, and the b (slope) values ranged from 2.53 to 3.28. TL and FL were highly correlated (p < 0.001 and R 2 > 0.9422 for all parameters), and a and b ranged from -9.12 to 15.85 and 0.87 to 1.45, respectively. The results provide the key morphology parameters, which are beneficial for fishery researchers and managers in stock assessment, administration and conservation. study lengthweight (LWRs lengthlength (LLRs 1 speciesimportant species important modelswere models 6 201 30 waters 7426 7 426 7,42 TL, , (TL) (FL W (W measured blogTL logTL b*logTL bFL b*FL addition 95 CIs (CIs p 0.001, 0001 0 001 0.001) 09412 9412 0.941 intercept (intercept 00025 0025 0.002 04 4 0.4 slope (slope 253 53 2.5 328 3 28 3.28 0.00 09422 9422 0.942 parameters) 9.12 912 9 12 -9.1 1585 15 85 15.8 087 87 0.8 145 45 1.45 respectively assessment conservation 20 742 42 7,4 (TL 000 00 0941 941 0.94 0002 002 0. 25 5 2. 32 3.2 0.0 0942 942 9.1 91 -9. 158 8 15. 08 14 1.4 74 7, 094 94 0.9 3. 9. -9 1. 09 -

Resumen Introducción: Rita rita es un pez de agua dulce bajo amenaza de extinción, principalmente por la pérdida de sitios de reproducción y crianza. Un método fiable para las estimaciones de edad y crecimiento es necesario para los administradores de recursos pesqueros. Objetivo: Identificar la mejor estructura corporal para estimaciones de edad y crecimiento. Métodos: Evaluamos la precisión de las estimaciones mediante el Porcentaje de Error Promedio (APE), Coeficiente de Variación (CV), y Porcentaje de Acuerdo (PA) entre lecturas para cada estructura calcificada. Usamos 390 muestras de peces de tres ríos, Ganga, Yamuna y Ramganga, de setiembre 2018 hasta agosto 2019. Resultados: Los tres indicadores favorecieron el uso de vértebras para la estimación de edad; la banda de crecimiento parece ser anual y se forma entre mayo y setiembre. Las ecuaciones de crecimiento fueron Lt = 90.19(1-e-0.145(t+0.51)) para Ganga; Lt = 91.19 (1-e-0.14(t+0.59)) para Yamuna y Lt = 89.63 (1-e-0.15(t+0.68)) para Ramganga. Conclusión: La especie alcanza un crecimiento moderado en estos ríos, dónde las vértebras son la estructura de estimación etaria recomendada, seguido de, en caso de ser necesario, los otolitos segmentados, otolitos enteros y huesos operculares. Debe evitarse el uso de espinas pectorales, especialmente en peces de mayor edad.

Abstract Introduction: Rita rita is a freshwater catfish under threat of extinction, mainly from loss of breeding and nursing grounds. A reliable method for age and growth estimation is needed by fishery managers. Objective: To identify the best body structure for age and growth estimation. Methods: We assessed estimates precision based on Average Percent Error (APE), Coefficient Variation (CV), and Percent Agreement (PA) between readers separately analyzed each calcified structure. We used 390 fish samples from three rivers, Ganga, Yamuna and Ramganga, from September 2018 to August 2019. Results: The three indicators favored the use of vertebrae for age estimation; the growth band seems to be annual and formed from May to September. The growth equations were Lt = 90.19(1-e-0.145(t+0.51)) for Ganga; Lt = 91.19 (1-e-0.14(t+0.59)) for Yamuna and Lt = 89.63 (1-e-0.15(t+0.68)) for Ramganga. Conclusion: This species reaches moderate growth in these rivers, where vertebrae are the recommended age estimation structure, followed, in case of need, by sectioned otoliths, whole otoliths and opercular bones. Pectoral spines should be avoided, especially in older fish.

Resumen. Se evaluó el estado de explotación del marlin rayado en el Pacífico mexicano con datos históricos (1963-2014) de captura y esfuerzo de flotas comerciales y deportivas, incluso datos de captura incidental. Se estimaron 8 indicadores de abundancia relativa independientes para ajustar un modelo dinámico de biomasa por máxima verosimilitud. Para el periodo más reciente (2015-2019), se evaluó el estado de explotación a través de simulaciones hechas con el modelo ajustado, y se tomó como referencia los datos disponibles de captura por unidad de esfuerzo de las flotas deportivas. Los resultados indicaron que hasta 2014, la abundancia del marlin rayado ha pasado por 3 etapas diferentes. La primera fue una tendencia decreciente de 1964 a 1977, donde las capturas y el esfuerzo de las flotas comerciales excedieron, respectivamente, el máximo rendimiento sostenible (MRS) y el esfuerzo para alcanzar el MRS. La segunda ocurrió de 1977 a 1990, y fue una tendencia estable de baja abundancia, inferior a la abundancia cuando se alcanza el MRS; este cambio se relacionó con la reducción del esfuerzo de las flotas comerciales, aunque con capturas superiores al MRS. La tercera ocurrió de 1990 a 2014, y mostró una tendencia al incremento de la abundancia, debido al cese de operaciones de las flotas comerciales. Este incremento ha sido lento debido al desarrollo de la pesca deportiva y al incremento de las capturas incidentales. Después de 2014, el indicador para las flotas deportivas sugirió un cambio en la abundancia; de acuerdo con las simulaciones, la mortalidad por pesca fue insuficiente para explicar dicho cambio. Se plantea como hipótesis que la mortalidad natural del marlin rayado ha sido alta desde la década de 2010. Se discuten las condiciones que pudieron influir en esta situación y sus implicaciones en el manejo pesquero.

Abstract. Stock assessment of the striped marlin from the Mexican Pacific coast was done with historical (1963-2014) catch and effort data provided by commercial and recreational fleets, including bycatch data. Eight fishery-independent indices of relative abundance were used to fit a biomass dynamic model by maximum likelihood. For the most recent period (2015-2019), stock status was evaluated through simulations with the fitted model and available catch-per-unit-effort data of the recreational fleets as reference framework. Results indicated that up until 2014, striped marlin abundance showed 3 different trends. The first one was a decreasing trend from 1964 to 1977, where the catch and effort of commercial fleets exceeded the maximum sustainable yield (MSY) and the level of effort to reach MSY, respectively. The second one occurred from 1977 to 1990, and it was a stable trend with low abundance, less than the abundance when MSY is reached; this change was related to the reduction of commercial effort, although catches greater than the MSY were observed. The third one occurred from 1990 to 2014, and it showed increasing abundance due to the cessation of commercial fleets. This increase, however, has become slower because of the development of the recreational fishery and the increased bycatch. After 2014, the indicator estimated with the data from the recreational fleets suggested a shift in abundance; according to simulations, the fishing mortality was insufficient to explain this change. It is hypothesized that the natural mortality of striped marlin has been high since the mid-2010s. Conditions that could influence this situation and their implications on fishery management are discussed.

Resumen La sardina crinuda azul (Opisthonema bulleri) es parte de los desembarques comerciales de peces pelágicos menores del sur del Golfo de California; la pesquería está certificada como sostenible por Marine Stewardship Council. Los parámetros de crecimiento de esta especie son de gran interés en la evaluación y manejo de la pesquería del complejo Opisthonema. En este estudio, se generó un conjunto de datos de edad a la talla de 367 lecturas de otolitos de los años 2005 y 2015 para completar los meses del año calendario con información continua e inferir la periodicidad de formación de la marca de crecimiento. Se utilizó un enfoque de selección multimodelo en cinco submodelos especiales del modelo de Schnute generalizado, incluido uno equivalente al modelo de von Bertalanffy. El tipo de borde mensual de los otolitos sugiere una marca de crecimiento anual. Se identificaron seis grupos de edad (0-5 años), con una APE y CV de 4,5 y 2,9 % respectivamente. El análisis de edad a la talla del conjunto de datos con la selección multimodelo es una garantía de que el caso uno de Schnute es el mejor para describir y estimar los parámetros de crecimiento de O. bulleri del sur del Golfo de California.

Abstract The blue thread herring (Opisthonema bulleri) is part of the landing commercials of small pelagic fishes from the southern Gulf of California; the fishery is certified as sustainable by the Marine Stewardship Council. The growth parameters of this specie are of great interest in the assessment and management of Opisthonema complex fishery. In this study, a data set age-at-size was generated from 367 otolith reads from the years 2005 and 2015 to complete the monthly continuity of one year and infer the formation periodicity of the growth mark. A multi-model approach on five special submodels of the generalized Schnute model, including one equivalent to the von Bertalanffy model, was used. The monthly edge type of otoliths suggests an annual growth mark. Six age groups were identified (0 - 5 years), with an APE and CV of 4.5 and 2.9 %, respectively. The age-at-length analysis of the data set with multi-model selection is a guarantee that Schnute’s case is the best to describe and estimate the growth parameters of O. bulleri from the southern Gulf of California.

RESÚMEN Tradicionalmente se ha utilizado el modelo de von Bertalanffy como patrón único en el estudio del crecimiento de los peces, considerándolo a priori como el único modelo que se ajusta a los datos de longitud-edad de las especies; una consideración que genera incertidumbres en los valores de los parámetros de crecimientos que son estimados, por cuanto se sabe que existen otros modelos de crecimiento que podrían ajustarse igualmente a los datos de longitud-edad. En este sentido, en la región del Orinoco Medio se hizo anteriormente un estudio del crecimiento de Brachyplatystoma rousseauxii utilizando el modelo tradicional de von Bertalanffy, y los resultados fueron usados posteriormente para evaluar la población; de ahí que el objetivo del presente trabajo fue validar los resultados del trabajo anterior, ajustando los mismos datos de longitud-edad a los modelos de crecimiento de la familia U Richards, y seleccionando el de mejor ajuste usando el Criterio de la Información de Akaike (AIC). Tal como se demostró en el primer trabajo, el modelo tradicional de von Bertalanffy se ajustó a los datos longitud-edad retro calculados, pero solo en un 35,4 %; mientras que la mayoría (64,6 %) se adaptó a los modelos U von Bertalanffy, U Logístico y U Gompertz, sin superioridad alguna de ninguno de ellos en el ajuste. Los parámetros de crecimiento estimados a partir de un modelo promedio fueron algo diferente a los obtenidos en el trabajo anterior, y por lo tanto se hace necesario reevaluar el recurso, para conocer realmente su nivel de explotación en el Orinoco Medio.

ABSTRACT Traditionally, the von Bertalanffy model has been used as the only standard in the study of fish growth, considering it a priori as the only model that fits the length-age data of the species; a consideration that generates uncertainties in the values of the growth parameters that are estimated, since it is known that other growth models could also fit the length-age data. In this sense, in the Middle Orinoco region, a study of Brachyplatystoma rousseauxii growth was previously done using the traditional von Bertalanffy model, and the results were subsequently used to evaluate the population; hence the objective of the present work was to validate the results of the previous work, fitting the same length-age data to the growth models of the U Richards family, and selecting the best fit using the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC). As demonstrated in the first paper, the traditional von Bertalanffy model fitted the back-calculated length-age data, but only 35;4 %; while the majority (64,6 %) fitted the U von Bertalanffy, U Logistic, and U Gompertz models, with no superiority of any of them in the fit. The growth parameters estimated from na average model were somewhat from those obtained in the previous work, and therefore necessary to re-evaluate the resource to know its level of exploitation in the Middle Orinoco.

Resumo Na pesca, o fenômeno fishing down food webs, ou ‘pescando teias tróficas abaixo’, expressa a redução do nível trófico na composição das capturas, e tem origem tradicionalmente atribuída à sobrepesca. Sob intenso extrativismo, a resiliência das espécies carnívoras, predadoras de topo, é particularmente afetada, sendo seus estoques os primeiros a entrarem em depleção. A cavala, ou serra, ou sororoca, Scomberomorus brasiliensis, é exemplo de recurso predador historicamente alvo da pesca artesanal, de pequena escala, na costa brasileira. O presente trabalho analisa os valores de desembarque do recurso em três períodos ao longo de 50 anos na costa paranaense, sul do Brasil, com objetivo de avaliar se sua produção tem efetivamente diminuído. Ainda, estuda-se a dieta da espécie na região, para confirmar seus hábitos carnívoros e avaliar o nível trófico na região. Os resultados mostram que, surpreendentemente, dos anos 1970 para 2019 a produção de S. brasiliensis tem aumentado em valores absolutos, bem como relativamente à de outros recursos, em que pese o nível trófico 4,238, similar a outras espécies do gênero. Constata-se que a pesca da cavala na região de estudo constitui um caso de aumento nos desembarques a despeito de elevado nível trófico e grande tamanho corpóreo. Os resultados concordam com recente levantamento em nível mundial, que nega existir correlação necessária entre sobrepesca e nível trófico alto, mas fatores que podem explicar os resultados do presente trabalho são discutidos.

Abstract In fisheries, the phenomenon known as fishing down food webs is supposed to be a consequence of overfishing, which would be reflected in a reduction in the trophic level of landings. In such scenarios, the resilience of carnivorous, top predator species is particularly affected, making these resources the first to be depleted. The Serra Spanish mackerel, Scomberomorus brasiliensis, exemplifies a predator resource historically targeted by artisanal fisheries on the Brazilian coast. The present work analyzes landings in three periods within a 50-year timescale on the Parana coast, Southern Brazil, aiming to evaluate whether historical production has supposedly declined. Simultaneously, the diet was analyzed to confirm carnivorous habits and evaluate the trophic level in this region. Surprisingly, the results show that from the 1970’s to 2019 Serra Spanish mackerel production grew relatively to other resources, as well as in individual values. The trophic level was calculated as 4.238, similar to other Scomberomorus species, consisting of a case where landings increase over time, despite the high trophic level and large body size of the resource. The results agree with a recent global assessment that has demystified a necessary correlation between high trophic level and overexploitation, but possible factors acting on the present findings are discussed.

Abstract Fish stocking is a common management strategy in Brazil, yet no assessment has examined its real extent and features. The present work investigated fish stocking practices in Brazil between 2010 and 2019 to characterize propagule pressure, species composition, the use of non-native species, geographical and temporal trends, environment types, and responsible agencies. Based on information disseminated on the internet, the study detected 1,155 stocking events (ca. 115 events/year). In total, ca. 56.4 million fish were stocked, with an average of ca. 90 thousand fish/event. We found events in all Brazilian regions involving 436 municipalities and 21 states. Most events occurred in the Northeast region (66.3%), which received alone ca. 41 million fish. Reservoirs were the primary target environment, and the public sector conducted most events. Fish stocking involved 63 taxa, including 14 non-native taxa and three hybrids. Considering the events that informed composition, 62.4% released non-native species, which summed 19.7 million fish. These results provide a broad overview of fish stocking practices in Brazil, and reveal that this action is widely disseminated. Its frequent use, associated with the lack of proper criteria and the illegal stocking of non-native species, raise concerns about technical aspects, outcomes, and potential environmental impacts.

Resumo A estocagem de peixes é uma estratégia de manejo comum no Brasil, mas nenhum estudo investigou sua real extensão e características. O presente trabalho investigou práticas de estocagem de peixes realizadas no Brasil entre 2010 e 2019, para caracterizar a pressão de propágulos, composição de espécies, participação de espécies não-nativas, variação espaço-temporal, ambientes e órgãos responsáveis. Com base em informações divulgadas na internet, o estudo detectou 1155 eventos de estocagem (ca. 115 eventos/ano). No total, ca. 56,4 milhões de peixes foram liberados, com média de ca. 90 mil peixes/evento. Encontramos eventos em todas as regiões brasileiras, envolvendo 436 municípios e 21 estados. A região nordeste somou a maioria dos casos (66,3%), e sozinha recebeu cerca de 41 milhões de peixes. Os reservatórios foram o principal ambiente alvo, sendo o setor público o principal responsável pelas ações. A estocagem de peixes envolveu 63 táxons, incluindo 14 táxons não-nativos e três híbridos. Considerando os eventos que informaram a composição das espécies, 62,4% liberaram espécies não-nativas, que somaram 19,7 milhões de peixes. Estes resultados fornecem um amplo panorama das práticas de estocagem de peixes no Brasil, e revelam que essa ação de manejo é amplamente disseminada. Seu uso frequente, associado com a falta de critérios apropriados e a soltura ilegal de espécies não-nativas, suscita preocupações quanto a aspectos técnicos, resultados, e potenciais impactos ambientais.

RESUMEN Con el propósito de evaluar el estado del pargo rayado Lutjanus synagris a partir de datos limitados de longitudes provenientes de los desembarcos de las capturas de la pesca artesanal registradas entre 2006 y 2012 en los Parques Nacionales Naturales Tayrona y Corales del Rosario y de San Bernardo y la Vía Parque Isla de Salamanca, se aplicaron indicadores simples y la metodología árbol de decisiones. Se observó un patrón de selectividad en la captura mayoritaria de ejemplares inmaduros (<L mat ) y un nivel de biomasa desovante inferior al punto de referencia límite objetivo, afectando la renovación natural de los stocks de L. synagris. También se ratificó el grado de sobrepesca por crecimiento y reclutamiento. Propender por la disminución de la presión sobre el pargo es un objetivo de manejo que requiere mayor protección en las tres áreas protegidas como zonas fuente, así como un ordenamiento regional participativo para la sostenibilidad del recurso. Por tanto, se recomienda llegar a acuerdos de conservación que propendan por una pesca responsable de peces maduros. Esto, permitirá un máximo rendimiento en biomasa y mejores ingresos económicos para los pescadores. Se propone la metodología descrita para la evaluación de otros recursos aprovechados en las áreas protegidas.

ABSTRACT With the purpose of evaluating the status of the lane snapper Lutjanus synagris from limited catch length data from the landings of artisanal fishing catches recorded between 2006 and 2012 in Tayrona and Corales del Rosario y de San Bernardo National Parks, and the Vía Parque Isla de Salamanca, simple indicators and the decision tree methodology were applied. it was observed that this indicator mostly configured a selectivity pattern represented in capture of mayoritary immature specimens (<L mat ) and a spawning biomass level lower than the target reference point, affecting the natural renewal of L. synagris stocks. Also, it was ratified the degree of overfishing for growth and recruitment to which L. synagris is subjected. Reducing pressure on snapper resource is a management objective that requires greater protection in the three protected areas for their ability to export the resource, as well as participatory regional fisheries management for the sustainability of the resource. Therefore, it is recommended to reach conservation agreements that promote responsible fishing of mature fish. This objective will allow maximum biomass yield, and better economic income for fishers. We also propose to apply the methodology described in this study to evaluate other fishery resources caught in the protected areas.

Abstract The weakfishes, Cynoscion guatucupa and C. jamaicensis, are important demersal fishery resources and are targeted by multifleet operations in the Southwest Atlantic. This study describes the length-weight relationships between sagittae otoliths (length-OL, height-OH, thickness-OT, and weight-OWT) and the sizes of the fish (total length-LT, standard length-LS, and total weight-WT). The proportion between otolith length and height (aspect ratio-OAR) was also compared between species. The samples were obtained monthly from March 2017 to February 2018 from small-scale commercial fisheries from landings of bottom trawls and gillnets on the continental shelf in the Rio de Janeiro state, southeastern coast of Brazil. The ANCOVA did not indicate significant diferences in relative growth between sexes for both species (p > 0.05) while the length frequency was diferent (p < 0.001). Cynoscion guatucupa showed positive allometry, WT = 4E-06LT3.21 and C. jamaicensis negative allometry, WT = 2E-05LT2.90 (p < 0.05). Both species showed diferences in the condition factor between the sexes (p < 0.05). Significant diferences were observed in the measurements of the otoliths between the two species (p < 0.001). All regressions between fish measurements and otolith morphometry were highly significant (p < 0.001) for both species. The best estimates of fish size and weight were related to the otolith length: OL vs LT (r2 = 0.93; 0.96); OL vs LS (r2 = 0.92; 0.96); OL vs WT (r2 = 0.91; 0.93) for C. guatucupa and C. jamaicensis, respectively. This information adds useful biological data for multiple types of studies, e.g., food ecology (prey-predator), age and growth, reproduction, fisheries assessment and long-term landing monitoring. Our results confrmed the historical pattern of relative growth, supporting that otolith growth reflects the somatic growth of weakfishes in the study area, reinforcing the importance to determine these reference points.

Abstract Fishing for serra Spanish mackerel takes place along the Brazilian coast. Studies in northern and northeastern regions show that has socioeconomic importance although risk of overexploitation. This article provides an assessment of fisheries in the southeastern and southern regions, where there is a gap in knowledge. To build a regional perspective, fishing monitoring data from Santa Catarina, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Paraná were used. For more detailed analyses, data from São Paulo and Paraná were chosen. In these two states, census data were collected on the species and quantities caught, fishing gear used and sales value. This fishery, mostly artisanal, has socioeconomic importance. Santa Catarina has the largest production. However, Rio de Janeiro has the most significant industrial fishery. São Paulo and Paraná produces approximately 110 t/year, mainly using drift gillnets and encircling gillnets with a mesh size of 10 to 12 cm between knots. The harvest period is during the cooler months, between May and August for São Paulo and between June and September for Paraná. The ANOVA test did not show any significant variations in CPUE, thus indicating stability. The results reinforce the need for adequate management.

Abstract Estuaries are extremely valuable ecosystems and have been affected by several anthropogenic activities from urban growth and industrial development, such as the release of untreated efuents which decrease water quality. This study aimed to evaluate the seasonal and temporal trophic status variation in the Formoso River Estuarine System (FRES), a tropical estuary. Three campaigns were carried out in each season (rainy and dry), during which surface water was sampled for abiotic parameter analyses. The TRIX index was used for trophic status assessment. For the temporal evaluation, a review of literature addressing the matter in the study area was conducted. Between 2017 and 2018, the TRIX index varied from a mean of 6 ± 0.2 upstream to 5 ± 0.4 downstream during the rainy season, indicating eutrophic conditions throughout most of the FRES extension, especially near the Formoso River, and from 6 ± 1 to 3 ± 0.8 during the dry season. Temporal analyses showed that in 2002 the overall mean TRIX index was 5.72 ± 0.4, decreasing in 2005 and 2014, and followed by an upwards trend. We conclude that the FRES is impacted by the release of untreated efuents such as sewage and fertilizers from the city of Rio Formoso and from various agricultural activities, which are more intense during the rainy season. Nevertheless, over time there were more critical scenarios pertaining to the trophic status. The present diagnosis reinforces the importance of public sanitation policies in estuarine regions and spatial planning instruments for pollution control in fishery areas.

Resumen Antecedentes: La exposición dietética al mercurio en mujeres en edad fértil podría provocar efectos neurológicos en el feto. En Bogotá, Colombia no se han realizado evaluaciones de riesgo por la exposición al mercurio total debido a la ingesta de productos de la pesca en este grupo de la población. Por otro lado, ha sido sugerido que el contenido de selenio en los productos de la pesca podría tener un efecto protector frente a la toxicidad por mercurio, sin embargo, el contenido de selenio en las especies de peces comercializadas en Bogotá, Colombia no ha sido determinado. Objetivo: Evaluar el riesgo de exposición al mercurio total y el contenido de selenio en los productos de la pesca consumidos por las mujeres en edad fértil de Bogotá, Colombia. Métodos: Se determinaron las concentraciones de mercurio total y selenio en distintos productos de la pesca disponibles en pescaderías y supermercados. El riesgo de exposición a mercurio total se estimó considerando la ingesta de estos productos por parte de un grupo de mujeres en edad fértil. Resultados: Las concentraciones más altas de mercurio total fueron de 0.8166 mg/kg en mota (Calophysus macropterus) y 0.6275 mg/kg en bagre (Pseudoplatystoma tigrinum). Por otro lado, la concentración más alta de selenio fue de 0.6471 mg/kg en nicuro (Pimelodus blochii). Finalmente, se estableció que el riesgo de exposición a mercurio total, debido a la ingesta de mota, excedió en 8.56 veces la dosis de referencia en el grupo de mujeres en edad fértil. Conclusiones: La ingesta de mota aumenta el riesgo de exposición a mercurio total en las mujeres en edad fértil de Bogotá, Colombia. Por otro lado, los niveles de selenio identificados en los productos evaluados, excepto en bagre y mota, teóricamente sugieren un posible efecto protector del selenio contra la toxicidad por mercurio. Considerando lo indicado, es necesario realizar un monitoreo continuo de las concentraciones de mercurio total en los productos de la pesca, con el fin de proteger la salud de las mujeres en edad fértil y de la población general de Bogotá, Colombia.

Abstract Background: Dietary exposure to mercury on in women of childbearing age could result in neurological effects on the fetus. A health risk assessment to of total mercury by fishery products intake have been nothas not been conducted in this population group in Bogota, Colombia. On the other hand, it has been suggested that selenium content on fishery products may have a protective effect against mercury toxicity. Nevertheless, selenium content on fish species marketed in Bogotá has not been determined. Objective: Exposure risk to total mercury and selenium content on fishery products, consumed by women of childbearing age from Bogota, Colombia, were assessed. Methods: Total mercury and selenium concentrations for products available at fish stores and supermarkets were determined. The exposure risk to total mercury was estimated considering the intake of these products by women of a childbearing age population group. Results: Total mercury highest concentrations were 0.8166 mg/kg in mota (Calophysus macropterus), and 0.6275 mg/kg in catfish (Pseudoplatystoma tigrinum). On the other hand, the highest selenium concentration was 0.6471 mg/kg in nicuro (Pimelodus blochii). Finally, it was established that for women of the childbearing age population group, exposure the risk to of total mercury due to mota intake exceeded by 8.56-fold the reference dose. Conclusions: Mota intake considerably increases exposure risk to total mercury on women of childbearing age from Bogota, Colombia. The selenium levels established in the fishery products assessed, except for catfish and mota, are theoretically suggestive to of a protective effect of selenium against mercury toxicity. Consequently, continuous total mercury concentrations monitoring is required to protect health of the women of childbearing age and the general population from Bogota, Colombia.

RESUMEN Antecedentes: La jaiba azul Callinectes sapidus (Rathbun, 1896) es una pesquería importante en términos socioeconómicos para el Golfo de Mexico. A pesar de su relevancia la jaiba azul ha sido poco estudiada. El manejo pesquero generalmente implica la toma de decisiones basadas en la evaluación del tamaño y la dinámica de la población. Objetivos: Determinar el nivel de explotación de la jaiba azul del Golfo de México utilizando datos oficiales de captura de 1980 a 2018. Métodos. El método de rendimiento máximo sostenible de captura (C-RMS) permite estimar los puntos de referencia que pueden utilizarse para la gestión de una pesquería, incluidas las capturas con rendimiento máximo sostenible (RMS), la biomasa asociada al RMS (BMSY) y la mortalidad asociada al RMS (FMSY) utilizando datos limitados. Resultados: Los valores de RMS y BMSY encontrados por el método C-MSY fueron 16,491 y 27,687 t, respectivamente. El valor de FMSY fue de 0.596, con un valor k de 55,374 t, variando entre 33,842 y 90,604 t. El valor r más alto viable de la productividad neta máxima fue igual a 1.19. Conclusiones: Los resultados indican que la pesquería de jaiba azul (C. sapidus) en el Golfo de México se encuentra en niveles saludables, pero con niveles máximos de explotación. Para mantener la situación de la población, se recomienda que la captura no exceda las 14,842 t (0.9 RMS) y/o una mortalidad por pesca igual a 0.9 FMSY.

ABSTRACT Background: The Blue crab Callinectes sapidus (Rathbun, 1896) is an important fishery in socio-economic terms for the Mexican waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Despite its relevance, the blue crab has been little studied. Fisheries management generally involves decision-making based on the assessment of population size and dynamics. Goals: Determine the level of exploitation of the Blue crab resource in the Gulf of Mexico using official catch data from 1980 to 2018. Methods: The Catch-Maximum Sustainable Yield (C-MSY) method allows estimation of reference points that can be used for management of a fishery, including Catch at Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY), Biomass associated with MSY (BMSY) and Mortality associated with MSY (FMSY) using limited data. Results: The values of MSY and BMSY found by the C-MSY method were 16,491 t and 27,687 t, respectively. The FMSY value was 0.596, with a k value of 55,374 t, varying between 33,842 and 90,604 t. The highest viable r value of maximum net productivity was equal to 1.19. Conclusions: The results indicate that the blue crab (C. sapidus) fishery in the Gulf of Mexico is at healthy levels, but wich maximum levels of exploitation. To maintain the stock status, it is recommended that catch do not exceed the 14,842 t (0.9 MSY) and/or fishing mortality equal to 0.9 FMSY.