Ecomorphological adaptation of Scorpaena porcus (Linnaeus, 1758): evidence from two different environments revealed by sagittae features and somatic growth rates

• DOI: 10.3389/fmars.2024.1347897
• Publication Date: 2024-05-01T05:03:12Z
• Authors: Claudio D’Iglio; Sergio Famulari; Josipa Ferri; Marco Albano; Nunziacarla Spanò; Gioele Capillo; Serena Savoca
• Keywords: 0106 biological sciences; growth; life-history; Science; Q; General. Including nature conservation, geographical distribution; QH1-199.5; otolith; populations; growth; comparison; morphology; life-history; populations; 01 natural sciences; otolith; comparison; morphology

Improve the knowledge base on ecomorphological adaptation of teleost species to different environments, trying reconstruct how habitat can shape sagittae , is essential for conservational purposes, evolutionary evaluations, and population dynamics studies. Here provided a comparative study between features, growth rates age composition two Scorpaena porcus populations inhabiting Mediterranean waters, one from Strait Messina (Central Sea) Split area (Adriatic Sea). Additionally, stomach contents specimens have also been analysed provide some preliminary information diet S. . A total ninety individuals, half each area, obtained extremely environments. Results showed an overall morphology, shape, morphometry among size classes investigated populations. Samples were characterized by most elliptical slender with more regular serration margins than those Split, which exhibited wider sagitta enhanced anti-rostrum longer rostrum Concerning diet, preference Crustacea (especially Brachyura Amphipoda) Teleost species, showing differences literature data other geographical areas (Split included). confirmed reliability detect inter-population variability areas, tool stock assessment, studies investigation habitats.