Seasonal variation in the length-weight relationship of Hoplias malabaricus in the Una do Prelado River at the Juréia-Itatins Ecological Station (Peruíbe, SP).

Abstract

The present study aimed to analyze the seasonal variation of the weight-length relationship and somatic growth of the trahira Hoplias malabaricus in the Una do Prelado River, within the Juréia-Itatins Ecological Station (Peruíbe-SP). Eight sampling campaigns (two for each climatic season) were carried out at eight sampling sites using gillnets (90 mm mesh size) between March 2024 and February 2025. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was applied to test differences between winter and the other climatic seasons. Distinct growth patterns were also observed throughout the seasons. The recorded differences may be associated with variations in energy allocation, mainly related to reproduction and food availability