Ocorrência e descrição morfométrica de Ostras (Bivalves: Ostreidae) de ambientes de praias do Rio Jari em Laranjal do Jari-AP

Abstract

The morphometric description of organisms, such as Paxyodon syrmatophorus oysters, represents a fundamental approach in biology, allowing detailed analysis of their physical characteristics and showing more about the adaptation and evolution of the species. The ability to process large amounts of morphometric data not only provides an in-depth understanding of oyster morphology, but also highlights patterns and variations that can be crucial to understanding their ecology and behavior. In this context, the present research aims to explore the morphometric aspects. The relevance of this study is particularly evident in the Laranjal do Jari region, in the state of Amapá (AP), where these oysters occur in muddy and sandy beach environments. However, current limitations in the data collection process, such as the lack of detailed morphometric studies, constitute a significant challenge. This work seeks to address these gaps, proposing improvements in morphometric data collection methodologies, aiming for a more comprehensive and precise understanding of the physical characteristics of these oysters in different coastal environments. The present study focuses on the collection, biometric analysis and morphological characterization of oyster morphospecies in the Laranjal do Jari environment. The quantitative and qualitative data collected were recorded in electronic spreadsheets, and descriptive statistics, such as arithmetic mean and standard deviation, were calculated to better define the morphometric pattern of this specific species. Tables and figures were generated to illustrate morphological relationships, and photos of the different morphospecies were described in detail, using detailed observations of external morphological structures. The results highlighted the significant presence of different morphospecies of oysters on the muddy and sandy beaches of Laranjal do Jari. The species Corbicula fluminea was analyzed in detail, highlighting distinctive morphological characteristics, such as the presence of a "rostrum" on the shell. The morphology of the inhalant siphon was highlighted as a useful criterion to differentiate the Corbicula species examined. Furthermore, the species Diplodon delodontus was investigated, revealing its ecologically significant role as a filtering organism, controlling the amount of phytoplankton, detritus and inorganic particles in the aquatic environment. The absence of individuals in certain areas suggests possible variations in the distribution or population density of these freshwater bivalves. The microstructural analysis of the shells, with emphasis on the prismatic structure, provided precise criteria for identifying the species, contributing to the understanding of the complexity and beauty intrinsic to these molluscs. In conclusion, this study not only provides valuable information about the ecology and population dynamics of oysters in Laranjal do Jari, but also contributes to broader research related to the biodiversity and taxonomy of these bivalves, with important implications for marine biology.