Spatio-temporal distribution of fish larvae in relation to ontogeny and water quality in the oligohaline zone of a North Brazilian estuary

Abstract

Larval fish assemblage in Guajará Bay was studied through four quarterly field campaigns and discussed in relation to individuals' development stages and exposure to contaminants poured out by the Pará State Capital City, Belém. Larval densities were low and diversity extremely poor with a strong dominance of clupeids, engraulids and, to a lower extent, sciaenids. The main spawning season was registered at the onset of the rainy period. Pre-flexion and flexion clupeiforms remained in the farmost stations from the city while post-flexion larvae were found near urban activity centres. Unlikely, pre-flexion and flexion sciaenids were scattered along the city waterfront. Post-flexion larvae were rare; it is suggested that sciaenids use the bay as a transitory route between their spawning grounds and more distant nursery grounds. The waters around the city of Belém showed signs of contamination. However, based on the literature, Guajará Bay environmental quality at the time of the study was suitable for fish larvae life. Nitrate with pH best explained larval distribution. Keywords: Ichthyoplankton, Amazon, urban impact, Belém.