Length at first maturity of freshwater fish species targeted by artisanal fisheries in the lower Araguaia River, Tocantins–Araguaia Basin, Brazil

Abstract

Abstract The length at first maturity (L50) was estimated for 23 freshwater fish species caught in the lower Araguaia River, Tocantins–Araguaia Basin, Tocantins State, Brazil. Sampling was conducted from March to September 2009 at seven sites along the main river channel. The L50 values ranged from 2.26 to 31.80 cm. New L50 estimates were obtained for 21 species. Only one species showed significant differences between sexes, with females having a higher L50 than males. These estimates can support the development of conservation and sustainable management strategies, as well as the establishment of minimum mesh sizes to prevent overfishing of fishery resources exploited by professional fishers in the lower Araguaia River.