Identification of the mullets (Mugil sp) at Cananéia estuarine region, SP, Brazil

Abstract

In order to get taxonomic informations which could allow the identification of the mullet, Mugil sp, in the Cananéia estuarine region, SP, Brazil (25° S; 43° W), morphometric data of the 482 exemplars were analyzed. The individuals presented a total length wideness varying from 70 to 784 mm. In regarding to the number of scales in lateral series (NES), it was registered that the wideness varies from 30 to 40, with a normal and unimodal frequency distribution. The comparison statistic analysis of pares relations, both morphometric parameters which beings are clustered in accordance with NES criteria (MENEZES, 1983), did not show the inter-specific separation. The comparisons among beings isolated according to NES and sex criterion indicated the head length as an intraspecific distinctive character. Therefore, as a conclusion, in the above mentioned area there is a single mullet species with NES varying from 30 to 40.