Pesca, policromatismo e aspectos sistemáticos de Potamotrygon scobina Garmam, 1913 (Chondrichthyes : Potamotrygonidae) da região da Ilha de Colares - Baía de Marajó - Pará

Abstract

The present study included specimens of the Family Potamotrygonidae, the only one among elasmobranchs formed entirely by freshwater representatives. This research was developed in the estuarine region of the Marajó Bay, in the island of Colares, during the months of May, August, October and December of 2000, December of 2001 and March of 2002. Sampling included the genera Plesiotrygon, Potamottygon, Paratrygon and a fourth undescribed genus, totalizing 723 captured specimens. Frequency of occurrence and biomass results indicated a predominance of the genus Potamotrygon especially of the species P. scobina in this area. Fishing gear utilized influenced the size of the stingrays captured. Specific observations related to the dorsal color patterns, size and sexual distribution of the species P. scobina were made. Results of multivariate statistical analysis and molecular genetics indicated that dorsal color patterns as currently employed in distinguishling morphotypes in fact did not indicate separate species and a single group was formed. Three previously undescribed dorsal color patterns for sub-adults / adults and two new patterns for juvenile specimens were identified for P. scobina. External characters analyzed for this species presented a wide variation in form, number, size and structure disposition that were more evident in sub-adults / adults. In this region, freshwater stingrays are routinely captured mainly for food and for medical and ornamental purposes. The conservation of freshwater stingrays species requires further knowledge about their biology and taxonomy in order to follow-up its exploitation and perhaps indicate management procedures.