Growth of the Cichla temensis Humboldt, 1821 (Perciformes: Cichlidae) from the middle rio Negro, Amazonas, Brazil

Abstract

This study aimed to estimate age and growth of the peacock bass Cichla temensis from the rio Negro (Brazilian Amazonia) by analyzing scale annuli. Specimens were captured between October 2011 and September 2012 in the main channel of the river and in adjacent lakes in the municipality of Barcelos, AM, Brazil. Six growth checks were identified on the scales of specimens. The annual variation in body condition observed suggests that fat is accumulated during the dry season. Results for the GSI (gonadosomatic index) showed that peak reproduction occurred in the receding-water period, indicating that the fish had energy deficiencies as a result of reproductive activity. RMI (relative marginal increment) analysis revealed that an annulus is formed once a year during the receding-water period. The population parameters estimated were L50 (length at sexual maturity) = 31.11 cm, L∞ (asymptotic length) = 68.05 cm, k (growth coefficient) = 0.20.year-1 and A0.95 (longevity) = 14 years. Our results corroborate the validity of using growth rings in scales as indicators to estimate the age and growth rate of Cichla temensis in the middle rio Negro.