Abstract The Atlantic goliath grouper Epinephelus itajara is the largest grouper species in the Atlantic Ocean. Despite the conservation status being Vulnerable (VU) globally and Critically Endangered (CR) in Brazil, the species continues to face threats from overfishing throughout its range. We used DNA barcoding employing the mitochondrial Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene to identify the illegal commercialization of E. itajara in fish markets from the northern (NC) and southern (SC) Brazilian coasts. Sampling was conducted in fish markets and aimed to confirm the identification of mischaracterized fish sold as E. itajara in the NC, as well as identifying fish fillets sold as the Dusky grouper in the SC. DNA barcoding allowed the unambiguous identification of 22 (84.6%) of the 26 analyzed fish market samples. Both sampled areas had confirmation of E. itajara illegal commercialization and from the 22 analyzed samples, 17 (77.3%) were confirmed to be E. itajara. Here we report two crimes, the illegal sale of E. itajara and commercial fraud by species substitution. This study has highlighted that the existing legislation that protects E. itajara in Brazilian waters requires the adoption of better public policies for the conservation of the species. Ocean VU (VU CR (CR Brazil range COI (COI E NC (NC SC (SC coasts 2 84.6% 846 84 6 (84.6% samples 1 77.3% 773 77 3 (77.3% crimes substitution 84.6 8 (84.6 77.3 7 (77.3 84. (84. 77. (77. (84 (77 (8 (7 (

Resumo O mero do Atlântico Epinephelus itajara é a maior espécie de garoupa no Oceano Atlântico. Apesar do seu status de conservação Vulnerável (VU) globalmente e Criticamente em Perigo (CR) no Brasil, a espécie continua enfrentando ameaças da sobrepesca em toda a sua área de distribuição. Utilizamos o sequenciamento de DNA por código de barras, empregando o gene mitocondrial da Citocromo c oxidase subunidade I (COI), para identificar a comercialização ilegal de E. itajara em mercados de peixe nas costas norte (CN) e sul (CS) do Brasil. A coleta de amostras foi realizada em mercados de peixe e teve como objetivo confirmar a identificação de peixes descaracterizados e vendidos como E. itajara na CN, bem como identificar filés de peixe vendidos como garoupa verdadeira na CS. O sequenciamento de DNA por código de barras permitiu a identificação inequívoca de 22 (84,6%) das 26 amostras de mercado de peixe analisadas. Ambas as áreas amostradas tiveram confirmação da comercialização ilegal de E. itajara, e das 22 amostras analisadas, 17 (77,3%) foram confirmadas como E. itajara. Nós relatamos aqui dois crimes, a venda ilegal de E. itajara e a fraude comercial por substituição de espécies. Este estudo ressaltou que a legislação existente que protege E. itajara em águas brasileiras requer a adoção de melhores políticas públicas para a conservação da espécie. VU (VU CR (CR Brasil distribuição COI, COI , (COI) E CN (CN CS (CS 2 84,6% 846 84 6 (84,6% analisadas 1 77,3% 773 77 3 (77,3% crimes espécies (COI 84,6 8 (84,6 77,3 7 (77,3 84, (84, 77, (77, (84 (77 (8 (7 (

Abstract Natural spawning of the leopard grouper (Mycteroperca rosacea) was studied in captivity from 2004 to 2008 under natural photoperiod conditions. Fish spawned naturally in 2006, but only 90,000 unfertilized eggs were collected. A total of 43 and 27 spawning days were observed in 2007 and 2008, respectively. Spawning season began in March and lasted until May-June and was related to an increase in water temperature from 21.1 to 23.8 °C. The mean (SE) number of eggs released each day was 101,705 (13,876) in 2007 and 40,510 (7,874) in 2008, and the total number of eggs collected in 2007 and 2008 was 4.37 × 106and 1.07 × 106, respectively. The number of eggs collected per month was not significantly different within each year (P> 0.05), although a significant difference was observed between 2007 and 2008 (P< 0.05). The annual relative number of eggs released was 288,750 eggs·kg-1in 2007 and 72,919 eggs·kg-1in 2008, and viable egg production was 184,800 eggs kg-1in 2007 and 25,375 eggs kg-1in 2008. The fertilization rate (%) of the eggs collected daily differed significantly throughout the spawning season of 2007 (P< 0.05). The fertilization rate also differed (P< 0.05) between 2007 (61.10%) and 2008 (32.30%). Statistical analysis of the 2 consecutive spawning seasons indicated no correlation between the fertilization rate and fecundity. The effect of the moon phase on spawning was also considered. The fish spawned at dusk before total darkness. Mean (SD) egg diameter was 864.0 ± 22.0 µm.

Resumen Se estudió el desove natural de la cabrilla sardinera,Mycteroperca rosacea, en cautiverio, de 2004 a 2008 en condiciones naturales de luz y temperatura. Los peces desovaron naturalmente en 2006, pero solo se recolectaron 90,000 huevos no fertilizados. Se observó un total de 43 días de desove en 2007 y 27 días en 2008. La temporada de desove comenzó en marzo y se prolongó hasta mayo-junio, lo cual se relacionó con un aumento en la temperatura del agua de 21.1 a 23.8 °C. La media (error estándar) del número de huevos liberados diariamente fue de 101,705 (13,876) en 2007 y 40,510 (7,874) en 2008, y el número total de huevos recolectados fue de 4.37 × 106y 1.07 × 106, respectivamente. El número de huevos recolectados por mes no fue significativamente diferente dentro de cada año (P> 0.05), pero sí al comparar 2007 y 2008 (P< 0.05). La puesta relativa anual fue de 288,750 huevos·kg-1en 2007 y 72,919 huevos·kg-1en 2008, y la producción de huevos viables fue de 184,800 huevos·kg-1en 2007 y 25,375 huevos·kg-1en 2008. La tasa de fertilización (%) de los huevos recolectados diariamente fue significativamente diferente a lo largo de la temporada de desove de 2007 (P< 0.05). La tasa de fertilización también difirió significativamente (P< 0.05) entre 2007 (61.10%) y 2008 (32.30%). El análisis estadístico indicó que no hubo correlación entre la tasa de fertilización y el número de huevos liberados en ambas temporadas de desove. El efecto de la luna sobre el desove también se analiza en el documento. Durante todo el estudio, los peces desovaron al anochecer antes de la oscuridad total. El diámetro medio (± desviación estándar) del huevo fue de 864.0 ± 22.0 µm.

ABSTRACT Members of the order Trypanorhyncha are cestode parasites that are frequently found infecting the muscles of several marine fish species, affecting fish health, and resulting in consumers’ rejection of fish. Fifty-two specimens of marine fish were freshly caught throughout the year 2020 from boat landing sites at the Alexandria coast along the Mediterranean Sea in Egypt, including the grey trigger fish Balistes carolinensis (F: Balistidae); the mottled grouper Mycteroperca rubra (F: Serranidae) and the common sole Solea vulgaris (F: Soleidae). Blastocysts were isolated and ruptured; the generated pleurocerci were described morphologically and morphometrically by light and scanning electron microscopy. Also, multiple-sequence alignment was performed, and a phylogenetic tree was constructed following maximum likelihood analysis of the 18s and 28s ribosomal RNA sequences of the recovered worms. Thirty fish were infected; the infection was recorded as blastocysts embedded in fish flesh. Three different parasitic species were recovered and classified morphologically as Gymnorhynchus isuri, Pseudotobothrium dipsacum and Heteronybelinia estigmena. The taxonomic position of these parasites was justified by molecular analysis of their 18s and 28s rRNAs, which revealed high percentages of homology with species recovered from the GenBank. The accession numbers ON157059, ON139663 and ON139662 were respectively assigned to the recovered parasites after their deposition in GenBank. The results obtained from the molecular analyses confirmed the morphological records of the recovered parasites. Since metacestodes are found in the musculature of infected fish specimens, it is necessary to remove these areas in the commercialization of fish. health consumers Fiftytwo Fifty two 202 Egypt F (F Balistidae Balistidae) Serranidae Soleidae. Soleidae . Soleidae) ruptured microscopy Also multiplesequence multiple sequence performed s worms flesh isuri estigmena rRNAs GenBank ON157059 ON ON13966 20 ON15705 ON1396 2 ON1570 ON139 ON157 ON13 ON15 ON1

RESUMO Os membros da ordem Trypanorhyncha são parasitas de cestóides que são freqüentemente encontrados infectando os músculos de várias espécies de peixes marinhos, afetando a saúde dos peixes e resultando na rejeição do peixe por parte dos consumidores. Cinqüenta e dois espécimes de peixes marinhos foram capturados recentemente durante todo o ano de 2020 nos locais de desembarque de barcos na costa de Alexandria ao longo do Mar Mediterrâneo, no Egito, incluindo o peixe de gatilho cinzento Balistes carolinensis (F: Balistidae); a garoupa mosqueada Mycteroperca rubra (F: Serranidae) e o linguado comum Solea vulgaris (F: Soleidae). Os blastocistos foram isolados e rompidos; os pleurocistos gerados foram descritos morfologicamente e morfometricamente por microscopia eletrônica de luz e varredura. Além disso, foi realizado o alinhamento de sequências múltiplas e uma árvore filogenética foi construída seguindo a análise de máxima probabilidade das sequências de RNA ribossômico de 18s e 28s dos vermes recuperados. Trinta peixes foram infectados; a infecção foi registrada como blastocistos embutidos na carne do peixe. Três espécies diferentes de parasitas foram recuperadas e classificadas morfologicamente como Gymnorhynchus isuri, Pseudotobothrium dipsacum e Heteronybelinia estigmena. A posição taxonômica desses parasitas foi justificada pela análise molecular de seus rRNAs de 18 e 28 anos, que revelou altas porcentagens de homologia com espécies recuperadas do GenBank. Os números de acesso ON157059, ON139663 e ON139662 foram respectivamente atribuídos aos parasitas recuperados após sua deposição no GenBank. Os resultados obtidos a partir das análises moleculares confirmaram os registros morfológicos dos parasitas recuperados. Como as metacestodes são encontradas na musculatura dos espécimes de peixes infectados, é necessário remover estas áreas na comercialização dos peixes. consumidores 202 Mediterrâneo Egito F (F Balistidae Balistidae) Serranidae Soleidae. Soleidae . Soleidae) rompidos varredura disso s infectados isuri estigmena 1 2 anos GenBank ON157059 ON ON13966 20 ON15705 ON1396 ON1570 ON139 ON157 ON13 ON15 ON1

Resumo Os membros da ordem Trypanorhyncha são cestoides parasitos, frequentemente encontrados infectando os músculos de várias espécies de peixes marinhos, afetando a saúde dos peixes e resultando na rejeição por parte dos consumidores. Setenta e cinco espécimes de peixe marinho foram capturados, recentemente, nos locais de desembarque em barcos na costa de Alexandria, ao longo do Mar Mediterrâneo no Egito, incluindo dois Carangídeos, o maior "amberjack" Seriola dumerili e o "gulley jack" Pseudocarans dentex; dois Serranídeos, a garoupa Haifa Epinephelus haifensis e a garoupa mosqueada Mycteroperca rubra. Quarenta e cinco peixes foram infectados e a infecção foi registada como blastocistos embutidos na carne do peixe. Os blastocistos foram isolados e rompidos e os pleurocistos gerados foram descritos morfologicamente, nos quais, quatro espécies diferentes foram recuperadas: Callitetrarhynchus gracilis, Callitetrarhynchus speciosus, Protogrillotia zerbiae, e Grillotia brayi. A posição taxonômica destes parasitos foi justificada pelo alinhamento de sequências múltiplas e foi construída uma árvore filogenética após a análise de máxima probabilidade das sequências de rRNA dos anos 18 dos vermes recuperados. Os números de adesão MN625168, MN625169, MN611431 e MN611432 foram respectivamente atribuídos aos parasitos recuperados. Os resultados obtidos a partir das análises moleculares confirmaram os registos morfológicos dos parasitos recuperados. Uma vez que se encontram metacestodes na musculatura de espécimes de peixe infectados, é necessário remover estas áreas na comercialização de peixe.

Abstract Members of the order Trypanorhyncha are cestode parasites that are frequently found infecting the muscles of several marine fish species, affecting fish health and resulting in consumers’ rejection. Seventy–five specimens of marine fish were freshly caught from boat landing sites at the Alexandria coast along the Mediterranean Sea in Egypt, including two Carangids, the greater amberjack Seriola dumerili and the gulley jack Pseudocarans dentex; two Serranids, the Haifa grouper Epinephelus haifensis and the mottled grouper Mycteroperca rubra. Forty-five fish were infected; the infection was recorded as blastocysts embedded in fish flesh. Blastocysts were isolated and ruptured; the generated plerocerci were described morphologically, where, four different species were recovered; Callitetrarhynchus gracilis, Callitetrarhynchus speciosus, Protogrillotia zerbiae, and Grillotia brayi. The taxonomic position of these parasites was justified by multiple-sequence alignment and a phylogenetic tree was constructed following maximum likelihood analysis of the 18s rRNA sequences of the recovered worms. The accession numbers MN625168, MN625169, MN611431and MN611432 were respectively assigned to the recovered parasites. The results obtained from the molecular analyses confirmed the morphological records of the recovered parasites. Since metacestodes are found in the musculature of infected fish specimens, it is necessary to remove these areas in the commercialization of fish.

Resumo Existem lacunas em nosso conhecimento sobre a biologia de peixes importantes no consumo em países tropicais. A pesca em pequena escala é difícil de estudar e regulamentar, especialmente em países sem monitoramento sistemático de espécies. Em Copacabana (Rio de Janeiro) observamos 490 indivíduos de badejo (Mycteropeca acutirostris), nas pescarias, em 2013-2014 e 2018-2020. O kg médio dos badejos pescados foi de 1,36kg (n=466 indivíduos). Observou-se um padrão decrescente de capturas para o badejo. Portanto, considerando que a tecnologia pesqueira e o número de pescadores permaneceram os mesmos, a aparente diminuição do badejo necessita ser investigada mais detalhadamente. Os resultados desse estudo fornecem informações sobre a reprodução do badejo, com maior época de desova na primavera (setembro-dezembro) e desova adicional durante o mês de abril, no sudeste do Brasil. Análises genéticas sobre amostras de 96 badejos obtidos ao longo da costa do Brasil foram conduzidas. A informação genética obtida para as espécies permitiu-nos determinar a proximidade genética relativa de M. acutirostris e Mycteroperca bonaci e obter informações úteis para a aquicultura e conservação. Os objetivos deste estudo são: a) obter dados sobre a atividade pesqueira (desembarque de capturas) de badejo (Comb grouper, Mycteroperca acutirostris) em Copacabana, Posto 6; b) verificar o período reprodutivo dos badejos capturados nas pescarias, ao longo do ano; c) desenvolver um grande número de marcadores SNPs, que podem ser úteis para estudos de populações de garoupa (Mycteroperca e Epinephelus); d) obter dados sobre o preço do badejo. Existem muitas lacunas no conhecimento sobre M. acutirostris; este estudo pretende adicionar dados sobre biologia e ecologia do badejo e ajudar a subsidiar objetivos de conservação.

Abstract There are gaps in our knowledge of important fish consumed by people in tropical countries. Small-scale fisheries are difficult to regulate, especially in countries with no species monitoring. At Copacabana (Rio de Janeiro), we observed 490 individuals of badejo (Comb grouper) (Mycteropeca acutirostris in 2013-2014 and in 2018-2020. The average catch was 1.36 kg (n=466 individuals). A pattern of decreasing catches was observed for Comb grouper. Therefore, provided that the fishing gear and the number of fish have remained the same, the apparent decrease in Comb grouper needs to be further investigated. The results provide information about the major spawning season, around spring (September-December) with additional spawning during April. Genetic analyses in samples from 96 grouper obtained along the coast of Brazil were conducted. The Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) loci obtained for grouper species enabled us to determine the relative genetic proximity of M. acutirostris and Mycteroperca bonaci, information that can be useful for aquaculture and conservation. The objectives of this study were: a) to obtain data about the fishing activity (catch landings) of Comb groupers at Copacabana, Posto 6; b) to verify the reproductive period of Comb grouper, throughout the year, through the catches from the fishery; c) to develop a large numbers of SNP markers, which can be useful to studies about grouper populations (Mycteroperca and Epinephelus); and, d) to obtain data on the price of the Comb grouper. This study contributes data on the fishery and on the biology and ecology of groupers, and further contributes to conservation efforts.

RESUMEN Con el objetivo de determinar tendencias en la abundancia relativa a través del tiempo para especies priorizadas dentro del Plan de Manejo del Santuario de Fauna y Flora Malpelo, se realizaron censos visuales submarinos (CVS) entre abril de 2009 y agosto de 2019. Se colectaron datos para cinco especies de peces óseos: jurel azul (Caranx melampygus), bravo (Seriola rivoliana), atún aletiamarillo (Thunnus albacares), cherna (Dermatolepis dermatolepis) y mero (Mycteroperca olfax), y seis especies de peces cartilaginosos: raya águila (Aetobatus laticeps), tiburón sedoso (Carcharhinus falciformis), tiburón de Galápagos (Carcharhinus galapagensis), tiburón aletiblanco de arrecife (Triaenodon obesus), tiburón ballena (Rhincodon typus) y tiburón martillo (Sphyrna lewini). En términos generales, se observó una tendencia negativa no significativa en la abundancia relativa a través del tiempo para la mayoría de las especies evaluadas, exceptuando A. laticeps y T. obesus, las cuales mostraron tendencias positivas no significativas. El tiburón martillo (S. lewini) fue la única especie que mostró una disminución estadísticamente significativa de su abundancia a través del tiempo. Los resultados de este estudio evidencian la necesidad apremiante de establecer medidas más eficientes de manejo y de regulación pesquera, que promuevan la conservación de especies importantes de peces no sólo dentro del santuario sino a lo largo del Pacífico Oriental Tropical.

ABSTRACT To determine trends over time in the relative abundance of species prioritized in the Malpelo Fauna and Flroa Sanctuary Management Plan, underwater visual censuses were done from April 2009 to August 2019. Data were collected for five species of bonefish: bluefin trevally (Caranx melampygus), longfin yellowtail (Seriola rivoliana), yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares), leather bass (Dermatolepis dermatolepis) and sailfin grouper (Mycteroperca olfax), and six cartilaginous fish: spotted eagle ray (Aetobatus laticeps), silky shark (Carcharhinus falciformis), Galapagos shark (Carcharhinus galapagensis), whitetip reef shark (Triaenodon obesus), whale shark (Rhincodon typus) and scalloped hammerhead shark (Sphyrna lewini). A negative non-significant trend in abundance through time was observed for most of the evaluated species, except A. laticeps and T. obesus, which showed positive non-significant trends. The hammerhead shark (S. lewini) was the only species that showed a statistically significant decrease in abundance over time. The results of this study highlight the urgent need to establish more effective fisheries management and regulation measures that promote the conservation of important fish species, not just inside the sanctuary but also within the Tropical Eastern Pacific.

RESUMO Este estudo avaliou as condições sanitárias do peixe mero E. itajara mantido sob cativeiro, em condições estuarinas, pelas análises hematológica e morfológica. Sete peixes (1.881,5±1.246,03g) foram capturados e mantidos em tanques localizados no estuário. Após 20 dias, os peixes foram coletados para avaliações morfológica e hematológica. Dois peixes tiveram sinais clínicos, como manchas hemorrágicas e perda de escamas devido ao comportamento agonístico entre os peixes. Amostras sanguíneas foram coletadas dos peixes anestesiados com auxílios de seringas umedecidas com EDTA 3%. Determinaram-se os parâmetros hematológicos (bioquímico, eritrograma e leucograma). Células sanguíneas foram caracterizadas por seu tamanho, cor e padrão. Estatística univariada e análises de componentes principais foram usadas para identificar um padrão hematológico entre os peixes com e sem sinais clínicos. Quatro tipos de leucócitos foram encontrados: linfócito, monócito, neutrófilo e basófilo. Os sinais clínicos não apresentaram diferença entre os peixes e a morfologia celular. Contudo, observou-se uma correlação entre os peixes com sinais clínicos e a quantidade de eritrócitos e lactato. Assim, encontros antagônicos entre os peixes são um fator estressante em condições de cativeiro, tornando-se necessário um manejo mais adequado relacionado ao tamanho dos indivíduos e à densidade de estocagem.

ABSTRACT This study aimed to report the sanitary conditions through the hematological analysis of grouper E. itajara reared in captivity on estuarine conditions. Seven Goliath groupers (1,881.5±1,246.03g) were captured and kept in two tanks located on estuary. After 20 days, fish were collected for morphologic and hemato-physiologic evaluation. Two fish had clinical signs such as hemorrhagic spots and loss of scale due to agonistic behavior. Blood samples were collected, and the hematological parameters (biochemical, erythrogram and leukogram) were determined. Blood cells were characterized by their size, color and shape. Univariate statistic and principal components analysis were used to identify a hematological standard between fish with or without clinical signs. Four leukocyte types were found: lymphocyte, monocyte, neutrophil and basophil. Regardless of the clinical signs the cell morphology did not present any difference among the fish. However, there is a significant correlation between erythrocyte and lactate on fish with clinical signs. Thus, agonistics encountered among the fish is a stressing factor in captivity conditions making it necessary to have adequate management related to the size of fish and stocking density.

ABSTRACT Background: Snowy grouper Hyporthodus niphobles (Gilbert & Starks, 1897) (Perciformes: Serranidae) is a demersal marine fish species, distributed in the eastern Pacific and which does not report studies associated with its parasitic community. Goals: Evaluate the parasitic communities of the snowy grouper H. niphobles of the marine coast of Peru. Methods: Were acquired 126 specimens of H. niphobles from Pucusana, Lima, Perú. The data on total length (LT), weight (W), and sex (S) of the fish were recorded. For the analysis of the parasitic community, parasitological ecological indices, aggregation indices, alpha diversity indices and association between fish biometric parameters and parasitological indices were calculated. Results: The parasitic fauna in H. niphobles was composed of monogeneans, trematodes, cestodes, acanthocephalans and crustaceans distributed in eight species among endoparasites and ectoparasites. The monogenetic Microcotyle sp. was the parasite with the highest percentage of prevalence (65.87%), mean abundance (3.68), mean intensity of infection (5.59). The distribution type found was aggregated or contagious for species with prevalence greater than 10%. Only the mean intensity of Microcotyle sp. was found to be positively related to the weight of snowy grouper. A low heterogeneity was observed between the parasite community and the sex of the host (F=0.5, p=0.73). Main component analysis shows a low association between most variables with each of the two main components (KMO = 0.52; Bartlett’s test, X2 = 52.75, p=0.20). Conclusions: H. niphobles is considered a new host for eight parasites recorded in this study.

RESUMEN Antecedentes: El mero manchado, Hyporthodus niphobles (Gilbert & Starks, 1897) (Perciformes: Serranidae), es una especie íctica marina demersal, distribuida en el Pacífico oriental y la cual no reporta estudios asociados a su comunidad parasitaria. Objetivos: Evaluar las comunidades parasitarias del mero manchado H. niphobles de la costa marina del Perú. Métodos: Fueron adquiridos 126 especímenes de H. niphobles provenientes de la localidad de Pucusana, Lima, Perú. Se registraron los datos de longitud total (LT), peso (W) y el sexo (S) de los peces. Para el análisis de la comunidad parasitaria, fueron calculados los índices ecológicos parasitológicos, índices de agregación, índices de diversidad alfa y asociación entre los parámetros biométricos de los peces y los índices parasitológicos. Resultados: La fauna parasitaria en H. niphobles estuvo compuesta por monogeneos, trematodos, cestodos, acantocéfalos y crustáceos distribuidos en ocho especies entre endoparásitos y ectoparásitos. El monogeneo Microcotyle sp. fue el parásito con el mayor porcentaje de prevalencia (65.87%), abundancia media (3.68), intensidad media de infección (5.59). El tipo de distribución encontrado fue agregada o contagiosa para las especies con prevalencia mayor al 10%. Solo la intensidad media de Microcotyle sp. se encontró relacionada de manera positiva con el peso de H. niphobles. Se observó una baja heterogeneidad entre la comunidad de parásitos y el sexo del hospedero (Pseudo-F=0.5, p=0.73). El análisis de componentes principales evidencia una baja asociación entre la mayoría de las variables con cada uno de los dos componentes principales (KMO= 0.52; Prueba de Bartlett, X2= 52.75, p= 0.20). Conclusiones: Se considera a H. niphobles como nuevo hospedero para los ocho parásitos registrados en este estudio.

Abstract The dusky grouper, Epinephelus marginatus, is a well-known and widespread marine fish assessed as endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. Analyzing the genetic diversity of this species is, therefore, of utmost importance and necessary for conservation purposes. Microsatellites are molecular tools with advantages that are ideal for population analyses. This study provides the first set of species-specific microsatellite loci for E. marginatus that can be applied when assessing both intra- and interpopulation genetic variation. Twenty microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized for the dusky grouper by genotyping 20 individuals obtained from the North Eastern Atlantic Ocean (n = 4) and from the South Western Atlantic Ocean (n = 16). The number of alleles per locus varied from 2 to 11, while the observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.25 to 0.94 and 0.34 to 0.89, respectively. The polymorphic information content varied from moderately to highly informative. This suite of markers provides the first specific nuclear tools for E. marginatus and, thus, allows to assess with more specificity different populations’ structures.

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to evalúate carbohydrates utilization by wild red grouper Epinephelus morio. Juveniles were fed during 93 d on a selection of starches: native raw cornstarch (RCS), waxy cornstarch (WCS), raw potato starch (RPS) and gelatinized potato starch (GP) at 20% inclusión level. The best growth was obtained in fish fed cornstarch either native raw of waxy cornstarch (p < 0.05). Hepatosomatic Índex and blood glucose (40 mg dL-1) were similar as well as hematocrit valúes (50%) (p > 0.05), whereas glycogen content increased up to 200 mg g-1 with waxy cornstarch. Specific activity of α-glucosidase and α-amylase remained stable (p > 0.05). Hepatic glycolytic enzymes increased with raw native and waxy cornstarch (p < 0.05); metabolic enzyme glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase (G6P-DH) was activated with raw native cornstarch (p < 0.05) while pyruvate kinase (PK) remained stable regardless of treatments (p > 0.05). Hexokinase (HK1) and glucokinase (GK) varied according to carbohydrate source: valúes were higher with cornstarches than potato starches (p < 0.05). Pentose monophosphate shunt (HMS) remained not altered by starch sources (p > 0.05). In final, the low size of granules from cornstarch favored the assimilation in liver of wild juveniles red grouper.

RESUMEN: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la utilización de carbohidratos en juveniles silvestres del mero E. morio alimentados con una selección de almidones: maíz crudo (RCS), maíz ceroso (WCS), papa cruda (RPS) y papa gelatinizada (GP). Los juveniles de peces se alimentaron durante 93 d con 4 dietas que se prepararon con 20% de nivel de inclusión de almidón. Se observaron diferencias significativas en el coeficiente de crecimiento térmico TGC (p > 0.05). Los mejores coeficientes se obtuvieron con el almidón de maíz crudo y ceroso (p < 0.05). El hematocrito (50%), el índice hepatosomático y glucosa en sangre (40 mg dL-1) fueron similares (p > 0.05), mientras que el contenido de glucógeno aumentó hasta 200 mg g-1 con el almidón de maíz ceroso. La actividad específica de α-glucosidasa y α-amilasa permaneció estable (p > 0.05). Las enzimas glucolíticas hepáticas aumentaron en los peces alimentados con el almidón de maíz crudo y ceroso (p < 0,05). La enzima glucosa 6 fosfato deshidrogenasa (G6P-DH) se activó con el almidón de maíz crudo (p < 0.05). La piruvato cinasa (PK) se mantuvo estable independientemente de los tratamientos (p > 0.05). La actividad hexocinasa (HK1) y glucocinasa (GK) cambiaron con la fuente de almidón, siendo mayor en ambos almidones de maíz que los almidones de papa (p < 0.05). La ruta pentosa fosfato (HMS) permaneció sin alteración por las fuentes de almidón (p > 0.05). En conclusión, el tamaño de partícula de gránulo inferior del almidón de maíz favoreció la asimilación en hígado de juveniles silvestres de mero rojo.

ABSTRACT In this study, sex steroids (E2, T, and 11-KT) concentrations in blood of captive leopard grouper (Mycteroperca rosacea) and their relation to gonad development were determined during a reproductive cycle. Each month, gonad samples from 24 fish were obtained to analyze gonadal maturation and blood was extracted to determine steroid levels. Throughout the year, ovaries showed a higher percentage of primary oocytes. In January, oocytes at early and late vitellogenesis stages increased progressively; from March to June, ovulation rates were high. In females, estradiol levels increased from March and decreased after the spawning season. Lower levels of testosterone were found during the spawning season and 11-KT remained without significant changes throughout the year. Males exhibit a significant increase in E2 from March until July; testosterone remained without significant variation throughout the year, and 11-KT plasma levels increased from March until July and decreased after the spawning season. In this study, we verified the sex change of an organism and the concentrations of sexual steroids were determined and discussed.

ABSTRACT This study investigated the anesthetic potential of the essential oil (EO) of Aloysia polystachya in juveniles of dusky grouper (Epinephelus marginatus). Fish were exposed to different concentrations of EO of A. polystachya to evaluate time of induction and recovery from anesthesia. In the second experiment, fish were divided into four groups: control, ethanol and 50 or 300 µL L−1 EO of A. polystachya, and each group was submitted to induction for 3.5 min and recovery for 5 or 10 min. The blood gases and glucose levels showed alterations as a function of the recovery times, but Na+ and K+ levels did not show any alteration. In conclusion, the EO from leaves of A. polystachya is an effective anesthetic for dusky grouper, because anesthesia was reached within the recommended time at EO concentrations of 300 and 400 µL L−1. However, most evaluated blood parameters showed compensatory responses due to EO exposure.

RESUMO A garoupa e o badejo-verdadeiro são predadores oportunistas de grande porte, com estratégia de emboscada, comumente encontrados em recifes tropicais do Atlântico Sul. A dieta das duas espécies foi investigada, avaliando influências ontogenéticas, espaciais e temporais, assim como a sobreposição no uso de recursos entre estes dois predadores co-orrentes no Banco dos Abrolhos, Brasil. Decápodes e peixes foram os principais itens alimentares de Epinephelus morio, enquanto que os peixes foram as principais presas de Mycteroperca bonaci. Ambas as dietas foram significativamente influenciadas pelo tamanho corporal e habitat, mas apenas indivíduos menores de E. morio alimentaram-se quase que exclusivamente de crustáceos. Como as duas espécies utilizam muitas presas semelhantes, a coexistencia parece ser facilitada pelo fato de E. morio se alimentar principalmente de crustáceos, particularmente do caranguejo Cronius ruber, enquanto que o badejo-verdadeiro consome relativamente poucos crustáceos e grande quantidade de peixes. Predadores como as espécies estudadas podem causar efeitos indiretos na comunidade e influenciar uma grande variedade de processos ecológicos, como conexões entre predadores de topo e intermediários e predadores intermediários e seus recursos.

ABSTRACT Red and black groupers are large-bodied opportunistic ambush predators commonly found in Southwestern Atlantic tropical reefs. We investigated the diet of both species in order to detail ontogenetic, spatial and temporal trends, and to assess the extent of overlap in resource use between these two sympatric predators on the Abrolhos Bank, Brazil. Decapods and fishes were the main food items of Epinephelus morio while fishes were the main prey of Mycteroperca bonaci. Both diets were significantly influenced by body size and habitat, but only smaller individuals of E. morio feed almost exclusively on crustaceans. While the two groupers rely on many of the same prey types, coexistence may be facilitated by E. morio feeding more heavily on crustaceans, particularly the blackpoint sculling crab Cronius ruber, while black grouper take comparatively few crustaceans but lots of fish prey. Predators like red and black groupers could trigger indirect effects in the community and influence a large range of ecological processes, such as linkages between top and intermediate predators, and intermediate predators and their resources.

RESUMO O mero, Epinephelus itajara , encontra-se criticamente ameaçado, resultado da pesca ilegal e destruição dos habitas. Filogeneticamente relacionadas a este táxon encontram-se garoupas que atualmente são intensamente pescadas no Atlântico Oeste. Apesar de leis mais restritivas aplicadas em alguns países, a captura ilegal com a descaracterização morfológica é uma prática comum que impossibilita a identificação correta da espécie permitindo que seja comercializada como garoupas, badejos ou chernes. A este respeito, técnicas moleculares representam ferramentas importantes para o monitoramento e fiscalização da pesca, provando ser essencial, na identificação forense de diversas espécies. Primers espécie-específicos foram desenvolvidos com base no gene Citocromo Oxidase subunidade I que aplicados em PCR-Multiplex possibilitam a identificação simultânea de nove espécies Epinephelidae: Epinephelus itajara , E. quinquefasciatus , E. morio , Hyporthodus flavolimbatus , H. niveatus , Mycteroperca acutirostris , M. bonaci , M. marginata e M. microlepis . A identificação via PCR multiplex de espécies de peixes ameaçadas e comercialmente importantes é um método rápido, prático, seguro e de baixo custo, que poderá ser útil o controle do uso e manejo sustentável de recursos pesqueiros.

ABSTRACT The Atlantic goliath grouper, Epinephelus itajara , is a critically endangered species, threatened by illegal fishing and the destruction of its habitats. A number of other closely related grouper species found in the western Atlantic are also fished intensively. While some countries apply rigorous legislation, illegal harvesting followed by the falsification of fish products, which impedes the correct identification of the species, is a common practice, allowing the catch to be marketed as a different grouper species. In this case, molecular techniques represent an important tool for the monitoring and regulation of fishery practices, and are essential for the forensic identification of a number of different species. In the present study, species-specific primers were developed for the Cytochrome Oxidase subunit I gene, which were applied in a multiplex PCR for the simultaneous identification of nine different species of Epinephelidae: Epinephelus itajara , E. quinquefasciatus , E. morio , Hyporthodus flavolimbatus , H. niveatus , Mycteroperca acutirostris , M. bonaci , M. marginata , and M. microlepis . Multiplex PCR is a rapid, reliable and cost-effective procedure for the identification of commercially-valuable endangered fish species, and may represent a valuable tool for the regulation and sustainable management of fishery resources.

ResumoLutjanus analis (Cioba), Lutjanus Jocu (Dentão) e Mycteroperca bonaci (Badejo) são peixes recifais de alto valor comercial e estão entre os principais recursos explotados na costa da Bahia. Estas espécies compartilham o hábito de formar agregações reprodutivas transientes, previsíveis no tempo e no espaço, o que as torna particularmente vulneráveis. O presente estudo objetivou obter indicadores indiretos de períodos e locais de possível ocorrência de agregações reprodutivas destas espécies, a partir da análise exploratória de dados de captura e esforço de pesca disponíveis para a região do Baixo Sul da Bahia. Foram analisados dados de desembarques da pesca de linha monitorados em 12 localidades da região, com registros de captura de Cioba (1320 desembarques), Dentão (654) e Badejo (1162). Foi desenvolvida uma estratégia de análise exploratória da variação mensal e distribuição individual das CPUE por viagem. Os resultados indicaram ocorrência de agregações em 26 sítios específicos, observando valores de abundância relativa muito acima das médias anuais, tanto no período de primavera/verão, como no de outono/inverno. As ocorrências dessas capturas foram validadas junto aos pescadores responsáveis por tais pescarias. Estudos adicionais são necessários para confirmar a atividade de desova nesses locais. Análise da variação inter-anual das CPUE sugere tendência de declínio na abundância relativa do Badejo e da Cioba, possivelmente associada à pesca não controlada sobre agregações reprodutivas.

AbstractLutjanus analis (Mutton snapper), Lutjanus jocu(Dog snapper) and Mycteroperca bonaci (Black grouper) are reef fishes of high commercial value, and are among the principal exploited reef resources on the eastern and northeastern coast of Brazil. These species share the habit of forming transient spawning aggregations, predictable in time and space, which leaves them particularly vulnerable. The present study aimed to obtain indirect indicators of periods and places of spawning aggregations for these species, based on the exploratory analysis of available data on commercial catches and fishing efforts in Southern Bahia. Line fishery landings data were monitored in 12 locations in the region, and catch records of Mutton snapper (1320 landings), Dog snapper (654) and Black grouper (1162) were analyzed. A strategy was developed for exploratory analysis of monthly CPUE variation and individual distribution of CPUE per trip. The results showed the occurrence of aggregations in 26 specific sites, with values of relative abundance far above the annual mean, during spring/summer and autumn/winter. The occurrence of these anomalous catches was validated with the fishermen responsible for respective fishing trips. Additional studies are needed to confirm spawning activity at these sites. Analysis of inter-annual variation suggests a decreasing trend in relative abundance of Black grouper and Mutton snapper, possibly associated with unregulated fishing of spawning aggregations.