Age and growth of the endemic g roovebelly stingray ( Dasyatis hypostigma ), a heavily exploited batoid in the B razilian Meridional Margin (21–34° S )

Abstract

Life‐history data are often lacking for exploited elasmobranchs, jeopardizing proper management and conservation measures for this vulnerable group. Herein, we provided age and growth estimates for the groovebelly stingray ( Dasyatis hypostigma ), a medium‐sized, heavily exploited batoid endemic to the southwestern Atlantic Ocean. Ages were estimated from vertebral centra, including 201 males and 71 females, with sizes varying between 150 and 580 mm in disc width (DW). Observed ages ranged from 0 to 10 years in males and from 0 to 11 years in females. Edge type analysis indicates that band‐pairs are seasonally formed once a year. Among multiple growth models fitted with a Bayesian framework, the logistic model best describes the growth in terms of biological realism and statistical robustness. Females attained larger asymptotic sizes and had lower growth coefficients than males. Growth parameters were comparable to that of D. hypostigma from Uruguayan and Argentinian waters, although males seem to grow faster in Brazilian waters.

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