Distribution and abundance of skipjack (Katsuwonus pelamis) larvae in eastern Brazilian waters

Abstract

Based on data from two ichthyoplankton surveys carried out off the eastern Brazilian coast in June and November-December 1978, the larval distribution of skipjack is discussed. Skipjack larvae were more abundant in the November-December cruise (southern hemisphere spring). They occurred mainly at stations near the margin of the continental shelf or over seamounts. Out of 240 specimens of scombrid larvae collected in this area, skipjack larvae comprised only 10.4% (25 specimens), whereas the most abundant larvae were Thunnus spp. with 68.8% (165 specimens).