Dragonet Larvae (Teleostei, Callionymidae) in Continental Shelf Waters off the Eastern United States

AbstractThe seasonal distribution and abundance of larvae of the fish family Callionymidae are reported from plankton collections in continental shelf waters off the eastern United States. Larvae of Callionymus pauciradiatus and C. bairdi were distinguished by meristic variations and pigment patterns. Callionymid larvae occurred in collections during all months sampled and peak densities were observed during summer and fall. Larvae of C. pauciradiatus dominated collections, constituting 90% of all larvae captured. Greatest densities of C. pauciradiatus were observed during late summer and early fall in mid-shelf regions of the South Atlantic Bight. Larvae of C. bairdi were most abundant along outer shelf stations. Abundance and size data indicate that previously unknown spawning populations of C. pauciradiatus inhabit mid-shelf regions as far north as Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. Larvae of C. bairdi in eastern U.S. shelf waters likely originate from tropical adult populations having extended spawning se...