SEASONAL OCCURRENCE AND SIZE STRUCTURE OF Xenomelaniris brasiliensis (QUOY & GAIMARD, 1824) (TELEOSTE, ATHERINIDAE) IN THE LAGUNA DE PIRATININGA, NITERÓI, RIO DE JANEIRO

Abstract

This study covers features of seasonal occurrence, spatial distribution and seasonal structure concerning size of the Xenomelaniris brasilensis in the Laguna de Piratininga, Rio de Janeiro. during the period between February 1990 to January 1992. X. brasiliensis showed a seasonal occurrence in the lagoon with greater abundance in the warmer months. The species was predominant on areas of greater depth and water transparency with abundant underwater vegetation. Adult individuals of the X. brasiliensis could consistently be found during the two years of the study, with clear predominance in the warmer period, while juveniles scareely occurred in cold period.