Aggregations and reproductive events of the narrownose smooth-hound shark (Mustelus schmitti) in relation to temperature and depth in coastal waters of the south-western Atlantic Ocean (38–42°S)

• DOI: 10.1071/mf15253
• Publication Date: 2016-06-20T08:09:29Z
• Authors: Mariano Elisio; Jorge H. Colonello; Federico Cortés; Andrés J. Jauregu...; Gustavo M. Somoza; Gustavo J. Macchi
• Keywords: 0106 biological sciences; https://purl.org/becyt/ford/1.6; environmental cues; 14. Life underwater; Coastal ecosystem; Elasmobranchs; https://purl.org/becyt/ford/1; 01 natural sciences; reproductive aggregations

Knowledge of environmental influence on reproductive dynamics in chondrichthyans is critical for effective management. The present study assessed the potential influences temperature and depth aggregations events narrownose smooth-hound shark (Mustelus schmitti), using an analysis criterion based co-occurrence different stages. Data were collected from 363 sample sites during six research surveys, covering area ~47744km2 along coast (38–42°S, <50m). Aggregations M. schmitti adults mostly associated with warmer spring aggregation being significantly than those non-aggregation. Evidence pupping ovulation was observed, almost simultaneously, all surveys. However, occurrence these showed a clear interannual variability pattern that explained by water temperature. Particularly, temperatures above 16–17°C. These results suggest may follow warming gradient environment and, thus, they aggregate shallow productive waters course spring. Their could be induced increase. This scenario suggests changes patterns bottom important drivers schmitti.