(Characterization of the brazilian scombroid species (Oesteichthyes Perciformes)

Abstract

Thirteen Brazilian species of the family Scombridae are characterized and described, and it is also cited the presence of a young Allothunnus rallai. Among the morphological characters studied the axial skeleton is specially described aiming primarily the identification of scombroids collected from stomach of apex predators. A key for tribes, genera and species is presented. Two distribution patterns of the Brazilian scombroids are presented: one according to the distance from the coast and the other according to the characteristics of the superficial water masses.