Multiple reproduction forms in the polyps of the cannonball jellyfish Stomolophus sp. 2: Probable life-cycle reversal.

The jellyfish genera Stomolophus spp. is one of the most abundant in the Pacific Ocean, yet it has not been thoroughly studied. Until recently, research has been developed and directed to its knowledge because of the economic interest in its exploitation. The genus Stomolophus in the Pacific Ocean is composed of five species (S. agaricus, S. chunii, S. collaris, S. fritillaria, and S. meleagris), and Stomolophus sp. 2 has been recently reported in the central part of the Gulf of California. Therefore, this study aimed to describe in vivo the different developmental stages of Stomolophus sp. 2 life cycle. As a result, multiple polyp reproduction forms were described, such as polyp-stolon formation, polydisc strobilation with more than 20 ephyrae formed by each strobila, and polyp formation directly from juvenile ephyra. In the degenerating phase, the polyps turned into cysts induced by stress conditions, such as changes in temperature, oxygen, and food availability. The life cycle of Stomolophus sp. 2 can be distinguished from that of S. meleagris by showing various asexual reproduction mechanisms and polydisc-like strobilation. The formation of polyps directly from the ectoderm of degenerating juvenile medusae suggests the possibility of a reversion cycle. Because of the different life cycles between S. meleagris and S. sp. 2, in addition to their morphological and genetic differences, this study proposes that Stomolophus sp. 2 should be considered a new species and suggests the name Stomolophus yaquilli, in reference to the indigenous community that lives in the species distribution area.

Interannual variability of distribution, abundance and population dynamics of the smooth hammerhead Sphyrna zygaena (Linnaeus, 1758) in the central-southeast Pacific Ocean.

This study provides information on the population dynamics of the smooth hammerhead shark Sphyrna zygaena in the central-southeast Pacific Ocean. The samples were obtained from artisanal fisheries from 2008 to 2013 to analyse cohorts, growth, mortality, abundance and recruitment using methods based on length and relative age and an inference multi-model. According to the von Bertalanffy growth model, the results indicated that the species showed from three to seven cohorts annually and slow growth (Wi = 57.20%): L∞ = 292.86 cm, K = 0.141 per year and t0 = -2.26. Length of sexual maturity was 239.30 and 209.10 cm at first capture; the average natural mortality value was 0.231 per year, by fishing 0.051 per year with a total mortality of 0.26 1 per year and exploitation rate of 0.15. Interannual variability was recorded in biomass with an average of 7367.24 tonnes, as well as a spatial permanence pattern. The results suggest that the La Niña event biologically favours the population in the area. The information from this study is essential for better understanding the species population and serves as a basis for future actions of management and conservation of S. zygaena.

Association of the whale shark Rhincodon typus with the cannonball jellyfish Stomolophus meleagris.

This study describes the first record of the whale shark Rhincodon typus association with the cannonball jellyfish Stomolophus meleagris in the Gulf of California, Mexico. Whale sharks were observed swimming and feeding among swarms of jellyfish, suggesting competition and predatory behaviour given the overlap in food preferences between both species. This finding is relevant because of the species-wide distribution and the importance of these interactions, which should be considered in conservation strategies of R. typus and management of cannonball jellyfish fisheries.

Diversidad taxonómica y funcional en la comunidad de peces de la pesca de arrastre de camarón en el norte del Golfo de California, México / Taxonomic and functional diversity of the bycatch fishes community of trawl fishing from Northern Gulf of California, Mexico

ResumenLa parte norte del Golfo de California es una zona mega diversa de alto endemismo con gran interés económico por las pesquerías multiespecíficas que se desarrollan, principalmente de camarón. Existe carencia de estudios recientes sobre ensamblajes de peces componentes de la fauna acompañante. Por lo que, durante las temporadas de pesca 2009-2010 y 2010-2011 se realizaron 14 viajes de pesca comercial a bordo de 13 barcos camaroneros, con un total de 119 lances, efectuados entre los 5 y 90 m de profundidad. Los 119 lances fueron analizados para evaluar la estructura de la comunidad de peces. Se utilizaron índices de diversidad taxonómica para detectar cambios taxonómicos en la comunidad siguiendo el índice de distinción taxonómica promedio Δ+ y el índice de variación taxonómica Δ* (TAXDEST del programa PRIMER v6). Para la conformación de grupos funcionales se consideró las similitudes de rasgos ecológicos y morfológicos entre las especies. Los resultados mostraron que los índices Δ+ y Δ* estuvieron dentro del promedio estimado y por dentro de los intervalos de confianza al 95 %, se encontraron diferencias significativas entre los índices. Los análisis mostraron una comunidad bien estructurada debido a la gran variedad de formas y funciones de las especies dentro de la comunidad. En la composición de grupos funcionales, el atributo ecológico que más contribuyó para conformación grupos, fue el gremio reproductivo. La estructura de la comunidad fue representada por niveles tróficos intermedios 3-3.9, preferencialmente carnívoros primarios y carnívoros secundarios, dentro de las categorías tróficas de ictiobentófagos y zoobentófagos, pertenecientes a especies demersales de fondos blandos y mayormente de cuerpo fusiforme.Se concluye que el NGC presentó alta redundancia funcional de acuerdo a los grupos funcionales estimados, por lo que se considera un ecosistema estable y de gran diversidad. Es recomendable dar seguimiento a este tipo de estudios utilizando información de esfuerzo pesquero y ambiental, debido a la gran importancia biológica y ecológica del área.

Abstract The Northern Gulf of California (NGC) is a mega diverse area of high endemism with major economic interest because of the multi-specific fisheries developed, mainly shrimp. There is a lack of recent studies on bycatch fish assemblages, so during the fishing seasons from 2009-2010 and 2010-2011, on board 13 shrimp boats, 14 commercial fishing trips were performed from 5 m - 90 m in depth with a total of 119 catches. The 119 catches were analyzed to assess fish community structure using taxonomic diversity indices to detect changes in the community following the taxonomic distinctness average Δ+ and the diversity index Δ* (TAXDEST of the PRIMER v6 program). To confirm the structure of functional groups, we considered similarities of ecologic and morphologic traits among species. The results showed that the indices Δ+ and Δ* were within the expected average and confidence intervals at 95%, finding significant differences between the indices. The analyses showed a well-structured community because of the great variety of forms and functions of the species within the community. In the community of the functional groups, reproduction was the ecological attribute that contributed the most to their structure. The community structure was represented by intermediate trophic levels (3-3.9), preferably primary and secondary carnivores within the trophic categories of predators of benthic ichthyo-fauna that belong to demersal species of soft bottoms and mostly fusiform body. To conclude, the NGC showed high functional redundancy according to the estimated functional groups, thus the ecosystem was considered stable and with great diversity. This type of studies should be followed using fishing and environmental effort due to the great biological and ecologic importance in the area.

[Taxonomic and functional diversity of the bycatch fishes community of trawl fishing from Northern Gulf of California, Mexico]. / Diversidad taxonómica y funcional en la comunidad de peces de la pesca de arrastre de camarón en el norte del Golfo de California, México.

The Northern Gulf of California (NGC) is a mega diverse area of high endemism with major economic interest because of the multi-specific fisheries developed, mainly shrimp. There is a lack of recent studies on bycatch fish assemblages, so during the fishing seasons from 2009-2010 and 2010-2011, on board 13 shrimp boats, 14 commercial fishing trips were performed from 5 m - 90 m in depth with a total of 119 catches. The 119 catches were analyzed to assess fish community structure using taxonomic diversity indices to detect changes in the community following the taxonomic distinctness average Δ+ and the diversity index Δ* (TAXDEST of the PRIMER v6 program). To confirm the structure of functional groups, we considered similarities of ecologic and morphologic traits among species. The results showed that the indices Δ+ and Δ* were within the expected average and confidence intervals at 95%, finding significant differences between the indices. The analyses showed a well-structured community because of the great variety of forms and functions of the species within the community. In the community of the functional groups, reproduction was the ecological attribute that contributed the most to their structure. The community structure was represented by intermediate trophic levels (3-3.9), preferably primary and secondary carnivores within the trophic categories of predators of benthic ichthyo-fauna that belong to demersal species of soft bottoms and mostly fusiform body. To conclude, the NGC showed high functional redundancy according to the estimated functional groups, thus the ecosystem was considered stable and with great diversity. This type of studies should be followed using fishing and environmental effort due to the great biological and ecologic importance in the area.

[Determination of stress in fish community obtained from shrimp trawl fishing in Northern Gulf of California]. / Estrés en la comunidad íctica en la pesca de arrastre del camarón en el norte del Golfo de California.

Bottom trawling has been considered a fishing activity that affects and modifies habitats, because of its impacts in species composition and abundance, and the alteration in the structure and function of the eco-system, that generates biodiversity loss. The Northern part of the Gulf of California has been considered a mega diverse zone with high endemism, and it is of growing interest by the international scientific community. In order to assess its potential changes in the fish community components of shrimp by-catch (FAC) in this area, a total of 119 trawls from 13 fishing boats were analyzed in Puerto Peñasco, based on 14 commercial fishing trips made within 9-90 m depth from 2010-2011. A random sample of 20 kg was obtained from each trawl, and was analyzed in the laboratory for species composition. In addition to the Index of Biological Value (IVB), Shannon diversity (H'), and Pielou evenness (J'), comparative abundance-biomass curves (ABC) were also estimated. Eucinostomus dowii showed the highest IVB = 480.25; Porichthys analis showed greater relative abundance; and Pomadasys panamensis showed greater frequency of occurrence. The mean monthly values in diversity H' = 3.05 (2.72 > H' < 3.25) and J' = 0.71 (0.66 < J' >0.81) showed a tendency to decrease as the fishing season progressed. The comparative abundance-biomass curves (ABC), and the value of statistical W showed moderate stress levels in March (W= -0.022) and September (W= -0.02) 2010, and January 2011 (W= -0.042). In conclusion, the Northern Gulf of California showed a well-structured community with a degree of moderate fishing stress.

Estrés en la comunidad íctica en la pesca de arrastre del camarón en el norte del Golfo de California / Determination of stress in fish community obtained from shrimp trawl fishing in Northern Gulf of California

La pesca de arrastre ha sido considerada como una actividad que impacta y modifica hábitats, provoca cambios en la composición y abundancias de las especies y altera la estructura y funcionamiento del ecosistema, generando finalmente una pérdida de la biodiversidad. La parte norte del Golfo de California ha sido considerada una zona mega diversa de alto endemismo y es motivo de interés creciente por la comunidad científica internacional. Con la finalidad de evaluar potenciales cambios en la comunidad de peces componentes de la fauna de acompañamiento del camarón (FAC), durante 2010-2011 se analizaron 119 arrastres de 13 embarcaciones camaroneras con base en Puerto Peñasco, a partir de 14 viajes de pesca comercial realizados a 9-90 m. Una muestra aleatoria de 20 kg fue obtenida de cada arrastre y analizada en el laboratorio para la composición de las especies. Adicional al Índice de Valor Biológico (IVB), diversidad de Shannon (H'), equitatividad de Pielou (J') fueron estimadas las curvas comparativas Abundancia-Biomasa (ABC). Eucinostomus dowii fue la mayor en IVB = 480.25, Porichthys analis la de mayor abundancia relativa y Pomadasys panamensis presentó la mayor frecuencia de ocurrencia. Los valores mensuales promedio en la diversidad H' = 3.05 (2.72 > H' < 3.25) y J' = 0.71 (0.66 < J' > 0.81) presentaron tendencia a decrecer conforme avanza la temporada de pesca. El comparativo curvas abundancia-biomasa (ABC) y el valor del estadístico W, evidenciaron a marzo (W = -0.022) y septiembre (W = -0.02) 2010 y enero 2011 (W = -0.042) con niveles de estrés moderado. En conclusión, la región norte del Golfo de California presentó una comunidad bien estructurada con grado de estrés moderado, aunque no explicado totalmente por la pesca.

Bottom trawling has been considered a fishing activity that affects and modifies habitats, because of its impacts in species composition and abundance, and the alteration in the structure and function of the ecosystem, that generates biodiversity loss. The Northern part of the Gulf of California has been considered a mega diverse zone with high endemism, and it is of growing interest by the international scientific community. In order to assess its potential changes in the fish community components of shrimp by-catch (FAC) in this area, a total of 119 trawls from 13 fishing boats were analyzed in Puerto Peñasco, based on 14 commercial fishing trips made within 9-90 m depth from 2010-2011. A random sample of 20 kg was obtained from each trawl, and was analyzed in the laboratory for species composition. In addition to the Index of Biological Value (IVB), Shannon diversity (H'),and Pielou evenness (J'), comparative abundance-biomass curves (ABC) were also estimated. Eucinostomus dowiishowed the highest IVB = 480.25; Porichthys analisshowed greater relative abundance; and Pomadasys panamensisshowed greater frequency of occurrence. The mean monthly values in diversity H'= 3.05 (2.72 > H'< 3.25) and J'= 0.71 (0.66 < J'>0.81) showed a tendency to decrease as the fishing season progressed. The comparative abundance-biomass curves (ABC), and the value of statistical Wshowed moderate stress levels in March (W = -0.022) and September (W = -0.02) 2010, and January 2011 (W = -0.042). In conclusion, the Northern Gulf of California showed a well-structured community with a degree of moderate fishing stress.

Fecundidad de la medusa Stomolophus meleagris (Rhizostomeae: Stomolophidae) en el Golfo de California / Stomolophus meleagris fecundity (Rhizostomeae: Stomolophidae) in the Gulf of California

The cannonball jellyfish Stomolophus meleagris is regarded as a fishery resource with high commercial value, but with scarce biological information. With the aim to generate preliminary information on reproductive aspects, the present study analyzes its fecundity, based on the estimated number of vitellogenic oocytes in the gonad; in addition, we evaluated its relationship with the jellyfish body length, diameter and wet weight; and we established the relationship of the gonadosomatic index (IGS) with the jellyfish diameter and length. For this, a total of 30 specimens were collected, measured and weighed in a monthly basis, in Las Guásimas lagoon from January to May 2006. In order to estimate the gonad volume, 60 mature females were analyzed and their gonads were extracted and stained with hematoxylin-eosin. Gonad images from histological preparations were analyzed and the number of vitellogenic and previtellogenic oocytes obtained. We used catch data from The Guásimas for population recruitment analysis, that was estimated with FISAT II. Among results, we found that fecundity increased with jellyfish length, diameter and total wet weight. The lower fecundity rates occured on February and the highest during May (11 873 071 and 37 528 197 millions of vitellogenic oocytes per gonad, respectively). The IGS increased with length and diameter of the specimens, at its maximum value of 3.7% was observed in May. A continuous production of previtellogenic oocytes were observed during the full collection period. The maximum recruitment was observed in July and November (37.50% and 28.01% respectively). The high fecundity observed in S. meleagris, suggests a high population reproductive potential that may support the possibility of an important fishery consolidation on this jellyfish.

La medusa Stomolophus meleagris es considerada un recurso pesquero de alto valor comercial. Debido a la relevancia de conocer aspectos de importancia biológica actualmente desconocidos, el presente trabajo analiza la fecundidad con base en la estimación del número de ovocitos vitelogénicos en la gónada; su relación con la longitud, diámetro y peso húmedo; y la relación del índice gonadosomático (IGS) con su diámetro y longitud. De enero a mayo 2006 se recolectaron 30 ejemplares mensuales que fueron medidos y pesados, de los cuales se analizaron 60 hembras maduras para calcular el volumen de sus gónadas. Se extrajeron las gónadas, se tiñeron con hematoxilina-eosina y se seleccionaron las hembras con madurez gonadal. Mediante la digitalización de imágenes se estimó el número de ovocitos vitelogénicos y previtelogénicos. Se emplearon datos de captura en Las Guásimas para el análisis de reclutamiento poblacional, estimado con FISAT II. La fecundidad se incrementó con la longitud, el diámetro y el peso húmedo total. La menor fecundidad se observó en febrero y la mayor en mayo (11 873 071 y 37 528 197 millones de ovocitos vitelogénico por gónada, respectivamente). El IGS se incrementó con la longitud y diámetro de los ejemplares, con su máximo en mayo de 3.7%. Se observó una producción continua de ovocitos previtelogénicos en todo el periodo de recolecta. El máximo reclutamiento se observó en julio y noviembre (37.50% y 28.01% respectivamente). La alta fecundidad encontrada en S. meleagris sugiere un alto potencial reproductivo para la población y sustenta la posibilidad de la consolidación de una importante pesquería de esta medusa.

Darkedge midshipman Porichthys analis (Batrachoidiformes: Batrachoididae), a common shrimp-bycatch fish from the Gulf of California

Shrimp fishery bycatch of the Gulf of California constitutes a wide variety of highly unknown fish, crustacean, and mollusk species with very low or null economic value, in contrast to those of commercial interest. However, there are no studies yet on the role of these low economic valued species have in the community structure and function, together with their possible effect on commercial populations. With the aim of contributing to the knowledge of Darkedge Midshipman fish Porichthys analis, the most common waste species in this fishery, we estimated some population characteristics. For this purpose, we obtained shrimp-bycatch fish during the 2004-2005 fishing season and performed some research surveys. A total of 1 725 Darkedge Midshipman were captured from 350 bycatch samples. Individual size ranged from 43-352mm SL. The weight to standard length relationship was determined as W=0.000092SL3.0509. Von Bertalanffy’s growth coefficient indicated a moderate growth rate (K=0.5) with an estimated asymptotic length ofL∞=352mm standard length, and a longevity of 6yr. Natural mortality was estimated as 0.97 and total mortality as 4.67. The recruitment pattern, as estimated by ELEFAN II, was extended over the year, peaking during spring and summer seasons. Sexual proportion of male:female was 1.65:1. Mature organisms appeared from August to March, and length at maturity was 157mm SL, which is larger than the mean size at capture 135mm SL. We concluded that the species is indirectly protected by its own bathymetric distribution and the off-shrimping season. This is the first study that considers population characteristics from this common but still unknown species.

A diferencia de las especies de interés comercial, la historia de vida de los peces no comerciales es casi desconocida a pesar de su potencial importancia en la estructura y función de la comunidad. Para contribuir al conocimiento de estas especies se estimaron algunas características poblacionales del chupalodo Porcihchty sanalis. La fauna de acompañamiento de la pesquería del camarón en el Golfo de California está constituida por especies poco conocidas y de escaso valor comercial. Las especies de la familia Batrachoididae son frecuentemente utilizadas como animales experimentales, pero poco se sabe de P. analis. De esta manera a partir de la fauna de acompañamiento se recolectaron 1 725 organismos y se determinó la relación talla-peso W=0.000092SL3.0509. Mediante ELEFAN I, se estimó un crecimiento moderado (K=0.5/año) con una longitud asintótica mayor que la observada reportada anteriormente (L∞=352mm SL) y una longevidad de 6 años. La mortalidad natural se estimó en M=0.97 la total en Z=4.67. El patrón de reclutamiento fue mayor durante primavera-verano. La proporción sexual M:F fue 1.65:1 y la talla media de primera madurez fue de 157mm SL mayor que la talla media de captura 135mm SL. Este es el primer reporte que considera las características poblacionales de esta especie común, pero poco conocida.

[Taxonomic composition and zoogeographical aspects of deep sea fishes (90-540m) from the Gulf of California, Mexico]. / Composición taxonómica y aspectos zoogeográficos de peces de profundidad (90-540m) del Golfo de California, México.

The Gulf of California has a high variety of ecosystems that allow different services and the fishery resources play a prominent role in its ecology, evolution and economics. Fish coastal species have been previously reported for most coastal areas, especially those species that are subject to fishing, however, little is known on the species from deep sea zones, due to sampling difficulties. We studied the deep sea fishes collected with trawl nets during three research surveys in the Gulf of California, Mexico in 2004-2005. We provide a systematic checklist and some notes on biogeographical aspects. For this, 74 fishing hauls were done, and a total of 9 898 fishes were captured, belonging to two classes, 15 orders, 35 families, 53 genera and 70 species. The best represented families in number of species were: Paralichthyidae (eight), Serranidae (six), and Scorpaenidae and Triglidae with five species each one. The typical families from deep waters were: Ophidiidae, Moridae, Lophiidae, Scorpaenidae, Triglidae, Paralichthydae, Pleuronectidae and Cynoglossidae. Size range varied from 13cm for the Splinose searobin (Bellator xenisma) to 234cm in the Pacific Cutlassfish (Trichiurus nitens). The biogeographical affinity showed that species with affinity to the East Tropical Pacific (ETP) dominated, followed by species from San Diego-Panamic, San Diego-Panamic-Peruvian-Chilean and Oregonian-Cortes provinces, respectively. A biogeographic overlap was found in the fauna, which reflects the Gulf of California's geographical position, with distribution limits of species from temperate, tropical and warm-temperature transition affinities, divisions that characterize the Gulf of California. Taxonomic status of fish with a focus on composition, location, characterization and zoogeography are fundamental to any subject of biodiversity and fisheries management actions.

Composición taxonómica y aspectos zoogeográficos de peces de profundidad (90-540m) del Golfo de California, México / Taxonomic composition and zoogeographical aspects of deep sea fishes (90-540m) from the Gulf of California, Mexico

Taxonomic composition and zoogeographical aspects of deep sea fishes (90-540m) from the Gulf of California, Mexico. The Gulf of California has a high variety of ecosystems that allow different services and the fishery resources play a prominent role in its ecology, evolution and economics. Fish coastal species have been previously reported for most coastal areas, especially those species that are subject to fishing, however, little is known on the species from deep sea zones, due to sampling cifficulties. We studied the deep sea fishes collected with trawl nets during three research surveys in the Gulf of California, Mexico in 2004-2005. We provide a systematic checklist and some notes on biogeographical aspects. For this, 74 fishing hauls were done, and a total of 9 898 fishes were captured, belonging to two classes, 15 orders, 35 families, 53 genera and 70 species. The best represented families in number of species were: Paralichthyidae (eight), Serranidae (six), and Scorpaenidae and Triglidae with five species each one. The typical families from deep waters were: Ophidiidae, Moridae, Lophiidae, Scorpaenidae, Triglidae, Paralichthydae, Pleuronectidae and Cynoglossidae. Size range varied from 13cm for the Splinose searobin (Bellator xenisma) to 234cm in the Pacific Cutlassfish (Trichiurus nitens). The biogeographical affinity showed that species with affinity to the East Tropical Pacific (ETP) dominated, followed by species from San Diego-Panamic, San Diego-Panamic-Peruvian-Chilean and Oregonian-Cortes provinces, respectively. A biogeographic overlap was found in the fauna, which reflects the Gulf of California’s geographical position, with distribution limits of species from temperate, tropical and warm-temperature transition affinities, divisions that characterize the Gulf of California. Taxonomic status of fish with a focus on composition, location, characterization and zoogeography are fundamental to any subject of biodiversity and fisheries management actions.

El Golfo de California tiene una alta variedad de ecosistemas que permiten obtener diferentes servicios y los peces juegan un papel prominente en la ecología, evolución y economía de este. De los peces, las especies costeras han sido reportadas previamente para la mayoría de las zonas litorales, especialmente aquellas especies que son sujetas a explotación pesquera, sin embargo, poco se conoce de las especies que habitan en zonas marinas profundas, debido a lo difícil de su muestreo. Se presenta el listado sistemático y la afinidad biogeográfica de los peces recolectados en tres cruceros de investigación en el Golfo de California con red de arrastre. Se efectuaron 74 lances exploratorios y se capturó un total de 9 898 peces, integrados por dos clases, 15 órdenes, 35 familias, 53 géneros y 70 especies. Las familias mejor representadas en número de especies son: Paralichthyidae (ocho especies), Serranidae (seis), Scorpaenidae y Triglidae (cinco cada una). Las familias típicas de aguas profundas son: Ophidiidae, Moridae, Lophiidae, Scorpaenidae, Triglidae, Paralichthydae, Pleuronectidae y Cynoglossidae. El intervalo de tallas encontrado varió de 13cm en la vaca doble hocico (Bellator xenisma) a 234cm en el sable del Pacífico Trichurus nitens. La afinidad biogeográfica muestra que dominaron las especies de afinidad al Pacífico Oriental Tropical (POT), seguidos por las especies de las provincias de San Diego-Panámica; San Diego-Panámica-peruano-chilena y provincias Oregoniana-de Cortés respectivamente. Se encontró un traslape biogeográfico de la fauna, la cual es reflejo de la posición geográfica del Golfo de California en los límites de distribución de los elementos en donde se manifiestan especies de afinidades templadas, tropicales y de transición templado-cálido, divisiones que caracterizan al Golfo de California. Los estatus taxonómicos en peces con un enfoque de composición, ubicación, caracterización y zoogeografía son fundamentales ...

[Stomolophus meleagris fecundity (Rhizostomeae: Stomolophidae) in the Gulf of California]. / Fecundidad de la medusa Stomolophus meleagris (Rhizostomeae: Stomolophidae) en el Golfo de California.

The cannonball jellyfish Stomolophus meleagris is regarded as a fishery resource with high commercial value, but with scarce biological information. With the aim to generate preliminary information on reproductive aspects, the present study analyzes its fecundity, based on the estimated number of vitellogenic oocytes in the gonad; in addition, we evaluated its relationship with the jellyfish body length, diameter and wet weight; and we established the relationship of the gonadosomatic index (IGS) with the jellyfish diameter and length. For this, a total of 30 specimens were collected, measured and weighed in a monthly basis, in Las Guásimas lagoon from January to May 2006. In order to estimate the gonad volume, 60 mature females were analyzed and their gonads were extracted and stained with hematoxylin-eosin. Gonad images from histological preparations were analyzed and the number of vitellogenic and previtellogenic oocytes obtained. We used catch data from The Guásimas for population recruitment analysis, that was estimated with FISAT II. Among results, we found that fecundity increased with jellyfish length, diameter and total wet weight. The lower fecundity rates occured on February and the highest during May (11 873 071 and 37 528 197 millions of vitellogenic oocytes per gonad, respectively). The IGS increased with length and diameter of the specimens, at its maximum value of 3.7% was observed in May. A continuous production of previtellogenic oocytes were observed during the full collection period. The maximum recruitment was observed in July and November (37.50% and 28.01% respectively). The high fecundity observed in S meleagris, suggests a high population reproductive potential that may support the possibility of an important fishery consolidation on this jellyfish.

Darkedge midshipman Porichthys analis (Batrachoidiformes: Batrachoididae), a common shrimp-bycatch fish from the Gulf of California.

Shrimp fishery bycatch of the Gulf of California constitutes a wide variety of highly unknown fish, crustacean, and mollusk species with very low or null economic value, in contrast to those of commercial interest. However, there are no studies yet on the role of these low economic valued species have in the community structure and function, together with their possible effect on commercial populations. With the aim of contributing to the knowledge of Darkedge Midshipman fish Porichthys analis, the most common waste species in this fishery, we estimated some population characteristics. For this purpose, we obtained shrimp-bycatch fish during the 2004-2005 fishing season and performed some research surveys. A total of 1 725 Darkedge Midshipman were captured from 350 bycatch samples. Individual size ranged from 43-352mm SL. The weight to standard length relationship was determined as W=0.000092SL(3.0509). Von Bertalanffy's growth coefficient indicated a moderate growth rate (K=0.5) with an estimated asymptotic length of L(infinity) = 352mm standard length, and a longevity of 6yr. Natural mortality was estimated as 0.97 and total mortality as 4.67. The recruitment pattern, as estimated by ELEFAN II, was extended over the year, peaking during spring and summer seasons. Sexual proportion of male:female was 1.65:1. Mature organisms appeared from August to March, and length at maturity was 157mm SL, which is larger than the mean size at capture 135mm SL. We concluded that the species is indirectly protected by its own bathymetric distribution and the off-shrimping season. This is the first study that considers population characteristics from this common but still unknown species.

Population parameters of the Pacific flagfin mojarra Eucinostomus currani (Perciformes: Gerreidae) captured by shrimp trawling fishery in the Gulf of California.

Shrimp trawling fishery in the Gulf of California captures a wide variety of non-target species of fish, crustaceans, and mollusks that are relatively unknown. The Pacific flagfin mojarra Eucinostomus currani is a frequently found species in these catches, nevertheless, nothing is currently known about its population dynamics. To contribute to the knowledge on this fish species, we studied the size structure, growth, mortality, and the recruitment pattern during the 2004-2005 seasons. A total of 6,078 mojarra were captured from 350 samples, with minimum and maximum lengths of 4.5 cm and a maximum of 21.0 cm. The average total length of the four major cohorts was 11.4, 13.7, 15.6 and 18.0 cm, corresponding to ages 0.9, 1.2, 1.6 and 2.2 years, respectively, being the most abundant the 1.2 year-old group. The instant growth coefficient indicated moderate growth rates (K(s) = 0.81/year, K(E) = 0.85/year), corresponding to individuals living between 3.5 to 3.7 years. The estimated asymptotic lengths was L (infinity) = 21.8 cm. In general, the population could be considered healthy: natural mortality (M = 1.53/year); total mortality (Z = 2.73/year); condition factor (K = 0.01072); fishery mortality (F = 1.2/year) and exploitation rate (E = 0.43/year). The maximum reproduction period almost coincided with the closed season for shrimp fishing (March to August), thus we concluded that survival of the species is ensured because reproduction is indirectly protected.

Population parameters of the Pacific flagfin mojarra Eucinostomus currani (Perciformes: Gerreidae) captured by shrimp trawling fishery in the Gulf of California

Shrimp trawling fishery in the Gulf of California captures a wide variety of non-target species of fish, crustaceans, and mollusks that are relatively unknown. The Pacific flagfin mojarra Eucinostomus currani is a frequently found species in these catches, nevertheless, nothing is currently known about its population dynamics. To contribute to the knowledge on this fish species, we studied the size structure, growth, mortality, and the recruitment pattern during the 2004-2005 seasons. A total of 6 078 mojarra were captured from 350 samples, with minimum and maximum lengths of 4.5cm and a maximum of 21.0cm. The average total length of the four major cohorts was 11.4, 13.7, 15.6 and 18.0cm, corresponding to ages 0.9, 1.2, 1.6 and 2.2 years, respectively, being the most abundant the 1.2 year-old group. The instant growth coefficient indicated moderate growth rates (K S=0.81/year, K E=0.85/year), corresponding to individuals living between 3.5 to 3.7 years. The estimated asymptotic lengths was L∞=21.8cm. In general, the population could be considered healthy: natural mortality (M=1.53/year); total mortality (Z=2.73 /year); condition factor (K=0.01072); fishery mortality (F=1.2/ year) and exploitation rate (E=0.43/year). The maximum reproduction period almost coincided with the closed season for shrimp fishing (March to August), thus we concluded that survival of the species is ensured because reproduction is indirectly protected. Rev. Biol. Trop. 59 (2): 887-897. Epub 2011 June 01.

La pesquería de camarón del Golfo de California captura una amplia variedad de especies incidentales, relativamente no conocidas que incluye peces, crustáceos y moluscos. La mojarra bandera del Pacífico Eucinostomus currani es frecuentemente encontrada en las capturas del camarón y no hay información sobre su dinámica poblacional. La estructura de tallas, crecimiento, mortalidad y patrón de reclutamiento fueron determinados durante la temporada 2004-2005. De manera que se recolectaron 6 078 organismos de esta especie en 350 muestras, las tallas mínima y máxima fueron 4.5cm y 21.0cm. La talla media de las cuatro cohortes presentes fueron 11.4, 13.7, 15.6 y 18.0cm, correspondiendo a edades de 0.9, 1.2, 1.6 y 2.2 años. El coeficiente instantáneo de crecimiento indica un crecimiento moderado (KS=0.81/año, KE=0.85/año), con una longevidad de 3.5 años. La longitud asintótica estimada fue L∞=21.8cm. En general, la población se mostró saludable, con una mortalidad natural (M=1.53/año); factor de condición (K=0.01072); mortalidad total (Z=2.73 /año); mortalidad por pesca (F=1.2/año) y tasa de explotación (E=0.43/año). El periodo de máxima reproducción coincide con la temporada de veda de la pesca de camarón (marzo a agosto). Concluimos que la sobrevivencia de la especie se encuentra indirectamente protegida.

[Latitudinal and bathymetric distribution of the most abundant and frequent species in the shrimp bycatch from the Gulf of California, Mexico]. / Distribución latitudinal y batimétrica de las especies más abundantes y frecuentes en la fauna acompañante del camarón del Golfo de California, México.

The Gulf of California is one of the most mega-diverse regions in the world, for which few fishery information is available. We present here latitudinal and bathymetric distribution of the most abundant and frequent bycatch species from the Gulf of California. The samples were obtained from a total of 111 hauls taken during seven research cruises of the closed shrimp season (2002-2005-2007), and also, from research cruises made at depths up to 90 m. Due to the high variety species in this experimental shrimp bycatch, only those with highest biological value index (BVI) were selected. A total of fifteen species had the highest BVI and represented about 60% of the total abundance. A total of 16 508 organisms were analyzed, representing 243 fish, crustacean, mollusk and echinoderm species. Fish were the most abundant, being the most frequent species: Urobatis halleri, Synodus scituliceps, Diplectrum pacificum, Haemulopsis nitidus and Eucinostomus argenteus. A wide latitudinal distribution of these species along the study area, as well as a bathymetric distribution from 9 to 67 m depth, was observed. Two of these species were found at 325 m depth. Due to the wide bathymetric distribution obtained, total abundances and sizes for each species by depth strata should be determined, and one can assume that deeper than 25 m, the capture of these species decreases, and these areas can be used as natural repopulation areas, for depths where they are mainly captured by the commercial shrimp fishery.

Distribución latitudinal y batimétrica de las especies más abundantes y frecuentes en la fauna acompañante del camarón del Golfo de California, México

Latitudinal and bathymetric distribution of the most abundant and frequent species in the shrimp bycatch from the Gulf of California, Mexico. The Gulf of California is one of the most mega-diverse regions in the world, for which few fishery information is available. We present here latitudinal and bathymetric distribution of the most abundant and frequent bycatch species from the Gulf of California. The samples were obtained from a total of 111 hauls taken during seven research cruises of the closed shrimp season (2002-2005-2007), and also, from research cruises made at depths up to 90m. Due to the high variety species in this experimental shrimp bycatch, only those with highest biological value index (BVI) were selected. A total of fifteen species had the highest BVI and represented about 60% of the total abundance. A total of 16 508 organisms were analyzed, representing 243 fish, crustacean, mollusk and echinoderm species. Fish were the most abundant, being the most frequent species: Urobatis halleri, Synodus scituliceps, Diplectrum pacificum, Haemulopsis nitidus and Eucinostomus argenteus. A wide latitudinal distribution of these species along the study area, as well as a bathymetric distribution from 9 to 67m depth, was observed. Two of these species were found at 325m depth. Due to the wide bathymetric distribution obtained, total abundances and sizes for each species by depth strata should be determined, and one can assume that deeper than 25m, the capture of these species decreases, and these areas can be used as natural repopulation areas, for depths where they are mainly captured by the commercial shrimp fishery. Rev. Biol. Trop. 59 (1): 255- 267. Epub 2011 March 01.

El Golfo de California es una de las regiones más mega diversas en el mundo, del cual poca información pesquera está disponible. Aquí se presenta la distribución latitudinal y batimétrica de las especies más abundantes y frecuentes en la fauna acompañante del camarón del Golfo de California. Las muestras fueron obtenidas de un total de 111 lances provenientes de siete cruceros en época de veda del camarón (2002-2005- 2007) y prospecciones realizadas a profundidades mayores a los 90m. Debido al gran número de especies en esta fauna asociada al camarón, se eligieron las que presentaron el índice de valor biológico (IVB) más alto. Las 15 especies con IVB más alto representaron el 60% de la abundancia total. Un total de 16 508 organismos fueron analizados representando 243 especies entre peces, crustáceos, moluscos y equinodermos. El grupo de los peces fue el más abundante, siendo las más abundantes y frecuentes: Urobatis halleri, Synodus scituliceps, Diplectrum pacificum, Haemulopsis nitidus y Eucinostomus argenteus. Se observó una amplia distribución latitudinal de estas especies a lo largo del área de estudio y una distribución batimétrica desde los 9 hasta los 67m de profundidad. Dos de ellas se distribuyeron hasta los 325m. Debido a esta amplia distribución batimétrica, se hace necesario determinar las abundancias totales y tallas por estrato de profundidad para cada especie, ya que a profundidades mayores de 25m la captura de éstas puede ser más baja y pueden servir como áreas de repoblación natural para las profundidades donde son capturadas principalmente por la flota camaronera comercial.

Peces de la fauna de acompañamiento en la pesca industrial de camarón en el Golfo de California, México

Bycatch fish species from shrimp industrial fishery in the Gulf of California, Mexico. The shrimp fishery in the Gulf of California is one the most important activities of revenue and employment for communities. Nevertheless, this fishery has also created a large bycatch problem, principally fish. To asses this issue, a group of observers were placed on board the industrial shrimp fleet and evaluated the Eastern side of the Gulf during 2004 and 2005. Studies consisted on 20kg samples of the capture for each trawl, and made possible a systematic list of species for this geographic area. Fish represented 70% of the capture. A total of 51 101 fish were collected, belonging to two classes, 20 orders, 65 families, 127 genera, and 241 species. The order Perciformes was the most diverse with 31 families, 78 genera, and 158 species. The best represented families by number of species were: Sciaenidae (34) and Paralichthyidae (18) and Haemulidae and Carangidae (16 each). The best represented genera in number of species were Symphurus (nine) and Diplectrum and Cynoscion (six); other important genera were Larimus and Porichthys with five species each. The best represented species in number were Syacium ovale, Pseudupeneus grandisquamis, Haemulopsis nitidos, Diplectrum pacificum, Synodus scituliceps, Balistes polylepis, Eucinostomus currani, Eucinostomus gracilis, Porichthys analis, Chloroscombrus orqueta, Selene peruviana, Orthopristis reddingi, Etropus crossotus, Scorpaena sonorae and Urobatis halleri. The number of recorded species is notably high, compared with demersal fauna of other areas of the Mexican Pacific, such as Gulf of Tehuantepec (178), Nayarit, Michoacán, Guerrero (174, 120 and 166), Jalisco and Colima (161 species), and those of the Western coast of the Baja California Peninsula (220 species). Rev. Biol. Trop. 58 (3): 925-942. Epub 2010 September 01.

Composición taxonómica de peces integrantes de la fauna de acompañamiento de la pesca industrial de camarón del Golfo de California, México. La pesquería de camarón es la más importante en el Golfo de California y también la más problemática con respecto a las capturas incidentales en México. Dentro de la fauna de acompañamiento del camarón (FAC), el grupo de mayor abundancia son los peces. Se presenta listado sistemático de las especies de peces presentes en la FAC de la pesquería industrial de camarón en la costa oriental del Golfo de California. Durante 2004-2005 se implementó un sistema de observadores a bordo de la flota camaronera de Guaymas, Sonora, que recolectaron muestras de 20kg de la captura. Los peces representaron 70% de las capturas en número. Se recolectó un total de 51 101 ejemplares de peces, pertenecientes a dos clases, 20 órdenes, 65 familias, 127 géneros y 241 especies. El orden Perciformes fue el más diverso (31 familias, 78 géneros y 158 especies). Las familias mejor representadas en número de especies fueron: Sciaenidae y Paralichthyidae con 34 y 18 especies, Haemulidae y Carangidae aportaron 16 especies. Los géneros mejor representados fueron Symphurus con nueve y Diplectrum y Cynoscion con seis especies, otros géneros importantes fueron Larimus y Porichthys con cinco especies. El número de especies registrado es alto, comparado con la fauna demersal de otras áreas del Pacífico Mexicano. Esta alta riqueza de especies se puede atribuir a los sistemas de corrientes, surgencias, remolinos, topografía y batimetría únicas, que en conjunto originan un ecosistema dinámico con un amplio régimen térmico y una gran variedad de hábitats. Los resultados aqui presentados ponen de manifiesto que esta región del Golfo de California presenta una gran riqueza de especies, lo que abre diversas expectativas desde el punto de vista ecológico, pesquero, alimenticio y de manejo.

[Bycatch fish species from shrimp industrial fishery in the Gulf of California, Mexico]. / Peces de la fauna de acompañamiento en la pesca industrial de camarón en el Golfo de California, México.

Bycatch fish species from shrimp industrial fishery in the Gulf of California, Mexico. The shrimp fishery in the Gulf of California is one the most important activities of revenue and employment for communities. Nevertheless, this fishery has also created a large bycatch problem, principally fish. To asses this issue, a group of observers were placed on board the industrial shrimp fleet and evaluated the Eastern side of the Gulf during 2004 and 2005. Studies consisted on 20kg samples of the capture for each trawl, and made possible a systematic list of species for this geographic area. Fish represented 70% of the capture. A total of 51 101 fish were collected, belonging to two classes, 20 orders, 65 families, 127 genera, and 241 species. The order Perciformes was the most diverse with 31 families, 78 genera, and 158 species. The best represented families by number of species were: Sciaenidae (34) and Paralichthyidae (18) and Haemulidae and Carangidae (16 each). The best represented genera in number of species were Symphurus (nine) and Diplectrum and Cynoscion (six); other important genera were Larimus and Porichthys with five species each. The best represented species in number were Syacium ovale, Pseudupeneus grandisquamis, Haemulopsis nitidos, Diplectrum pacificum, Synodus scituliceps, Balistes polylepis, Eucinostomus currani, Eucinostomus gracilis, Porichthys analis, Chloroscombrus orqueta, Selene peruviana, Orthopristis reddingi, Etropus crossotus, Scorpaena sonorae and Urobatis halleri. The number of recorded species is notably high, compared with demersal fauna of other areas of the Mexican Pacific, such as Gulf of Tehuantepec (178), Nayarit, Michoacán, Guerrero (174, 120 and 166), Jalisco and Colima (161 species), and those of the Western coast of the Baja California Peninsula (220 species).

[Lipid variation in oocytes of the jellyfish Stomolophus meleagris (Scyphozoa: Rhizostomeae) from Las Guasimas Lagoon, Mexico, during gonadal development]. / Variación lipídica en los ovocitos de la medusa Stomolophus meleagris (Scyphozoa: Rhizostomeae), durante el desarrollo gonádico, en la laguna Las Guásimas, Sonora, México.

The jellyfish Stomolophus meleagris has potential for commercial exploitation but there is little information on their reproductive biology. This paper seeks to evaluate some biochemical and demographic characteristics of the species. Samples were taken monthly during 2005 and 2006. Jellyfish collected in 2005 were used to describe the characteristics and quantity of oocyte triglycerides and phospholipids with the Sudan black technique, and to ascertain the degree of gonadal development and sex ratio by the hematoxylin-eosin technique. The 2006 jellyfish were used to determine the size at first maturity and protein and total lipids contents. Four stages of development in both sexes were determined, with a continuous gamete development. The highest percentage of mature organisms was recorded in April. The proportion of sexes was 0.7:1.3. We found higher concentrations of triglycerides than phospholipids in the cytoplasm. There was a positive correlation between triglycerides and the diameter of the oocyte. The size at first maturity for both sexes was 105 mm. The highest protein and lipids contents were obtained in April and March respectively.