The Influence of the Temperature on the Number of Vertebrae in the Argentine Anchovy, Mengraulis Anchoita (Hubbs and Martni)¹

Abstract

The influence of water temperature on the number of vertebrae in the Argentinean anchovy was studied using postlarvae hatched at different temperatures and collected in the Mar del Plata sea area during different months of the year. Variations in VS result from increase or a decrease in the number of the caudal rather than abdominal vertebrae. There is a negative correlation (—0·94) between the mean VS and the temperature at which the individuals were thought to have been developed. The lowest VS values (46·228 and 46·285) correspond to the highest temperatures (20·5° and 19·5°C) and the highest VS values (46·520 and 46·535) to the lowest temperatures (10·0° and 12·0°C).

A linear regression of VS on temperature fitted the equation y = − 0·0290x + 46·8184. The results are expected to prove useful in population studies, and in age and growth problems.

Author notes

¹This paper has been prepared through the sponsorship of Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Cientificas y Tecnicas de la Republica Argentina.