Abstract

CARVALHO, A.P.M. et al. Growth and development of estuarine dolphin (Sotalia guianensis) from Espírito Santo coast. Arq. Bras. Med. Vet. Zootec. [online]. 2012, vol.64, n.1, pp. 205-208. ISSN 0102-0935.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0102-09352012000100029.

The aim of this study is to analyze the development of the estuarine dolphin from the coast of Espírito Santo and verify that the analysis of X-rays of pectoral fin can be used for such. Thirty-seven Sotalia guianensis were used, determining the TL, examination of the degree of fusion of the vertebrae and X-ray of pectoral fins. At birth the TL is 103.3cm and in physically mature animals the TL is 187.5cm. The TL showed a significant correlation with the epiphyses of the distal radius and ulna and the degree of spinal fusion showed significant correlation with distal radius. It can be concluded that the X-ray analysis of the pectoral fins is a good way of assessing the physical maturation of these animals and can be used in routine procedures. 

Keywords : Sotalia guianensis; radiography; physical maturity.