Estrutura populacional da Ostra Saccostrea cucullata na plataforma rochosa da Ilha da Inhaca, Sul de Moçambique

Abstract

Inhaca Island presents coastal habitats with high benthic diversity, including populations of Saccostrea cucullata, a species of ecological and economic importance. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the population structure of S. cucullata on the rocky platform of Inhaca Island. Sampling was carried out between October and November 2023, during low spring tides, using transects and grids. The results indicated a total abundance of 572 individuals. Average densities ranged from 26 ± 8.17 ind./m2 at EBMI to 20.43 ± 9.80 ind./m2 at Ponta Torres. There were no significant differences in average density between the two locations. Differences in shell width were observed, significantly larger in Ponta Torres (45.08 ± 9.98 mm) than in EBMI (26.12 ± 11.91 mm). The Saccostrea cucullata population on Inhaca Island showed stable abundance, but with morphometric differences between EBMI and Ponta Torres, reflecting local adaptations and distinct population growth patterns.