Data on biology and exploitation of West Atlantic sperm whales, Physeter macrocephalus (Cetacea: Physeteridae) off the coast of Paraíba, Brazil

摘要: This study analyzes data on the biology of sperm whales, Physeter macrocephalus Linnaeus, 1758, obtained between 1965 and 1980 by COPESBRA at Costinha Whaling Station, Paraiba, Brazil. The come from log books whaling ships spreadsheets containing biological information filled out employees SUDEPE flensing plan station. catches occurred June to December, in an area delimited 06o22'-07o52'S 33o26'-34o58'W. A total 641 whales were killed this period. average sex ratio was 2.05 females each male. mean largest frequency recorded first last months season, that males July/August. length (TL) 11.4 m (minimum 7.2 m, maximum 17.6 m). had a TL 10.1 8.6 12.9 decrease observed along years. Fetuses 8.3% catches. They 0.24 4.3 m. All food their stomachs, showing they feed area. As other places north 40oS, there higher than males. difference time catch may reflect temporal segregation arrival reproductive activity these tropical waters occurs year-round.