Reproductive bioIogy aspects of female Etropus longimanus Norman, 1933 (Bothldae) In cabo Frio region, Rio de Janeiro: 1. Mean size at frist spawning, of type of spawning and sapwning seasons

Abstract

As part of upwelling ecosystem project of the Cabo Frio region, 653 female of E. longimanus were obtained by monthly sampling from November 1986 to October 1988. Histological analyses were done in order to verify the type of spawning. Mean size at first spawning and the spawning season was determined The results indicate that mean size at first maturation is 75 mm standard length and all females were ready for reproduction at 95 mm Multiple spawning for the species was estimated, occurring from end of spring until the beginning of Fall, with peak spawning summer at water temperature between 13.2 and 18.7ºC (upwelling period in the region).