Environmental influences on the ichthyoplankton in hypersaline estuaries located in a Semiarid Northeastern Brazilian coast

ABSTRACT Hypersaline estuaries are commonly found in the Semiarid Northeast Brazilian coast. However, utilization of these by early life stages fishes is less well documented. This study aimed to evaluate effects environmental factors on ichthyoplankton, and describe their spatial temporal variation two (Tubarão Casqueira). The sampling were diurnally four excursions carried out during dry-season months (November December 2017) rainy-season (May July 2018). A total 423 larvae representing 30 species (14 families) 2,762 eggs (five collected. Although community structures similar both estuaries, there was strong seasonal variation, with higher abundances observed dry season. Low rainfall primary driver affecting ichthyoplankton estuaries. Other factors, such as depth, water temperature, channel width, also predictor variables for distribution larvae. dominated marine estuarine-dependent accounting 76% individuals. presence typically suggests that hypersaline environments provide important nursery areas play an essential role some coastal fish species.