Population characteristics, habitat and diet of a recently discovered stingray Dasyatis marianae: implications for conservation

摘要: This study examined population density, habitat and diet of Dasyatis marianae, a recently discovered species, in the reef complex Maracajau Rio Grande do Norte state, Brazil. The highest concentration D. marianae occurred seagrass beds. Habitat use differed significantly between sex age classes, with females juveniles using areas other than reefs. Females utilized primarily beds mainly along sandy bottom near beach, highlighting importance protecting these areas. was characterized by crustaceans (91·9% index relative importance, IRI ), including shrimp, crabs lobsters. availability prey different types influences occupation but selectivity among factors, may affect this relationship. Intense shrimp lobster fishing region probably has an effect on preferred resources ray. Information feeding habits species contributes to better understanding trophic dynamics food webs, which is critical if ecosystem principles are be integrated into fisheries management.