Caracterização das anomalias em carapaça e plastrão de Podocnemis erythrocephala (PODOCNEMIDIDAE) no médio Rio Negro, Amazonas, Brasil.

Abstract

This study investigated the occurrence of anomalies in the shell of the species Podocnemis erythrocephala, known as irapuca, in the middle Rio Negro region of the Brazilian Amazon. The presence of such anomalies can be influenced by a variety of factors, including genetic and environmental factors. The objectives of this study were to diagnose the incidence and describe the anomalies in the shell of this species, as well as to verify if there are differences in the proportion of anomalies between males, females, and immature individuals. The methodology involved the analysis of 442 specimens captured in the Ayuanã and Jurubaxi rivers, in the Middle Rio Negro, using trammel nets for capture and subsequent individual marking to document the anomalies in the shell. The results indicated that 12.2% of the specimens presented some irregularity in the shell shields, with most of these anomalies located in the carapace. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of anomalies between males, females, and immature individuals. These results indicate a complex interaction of factors influencing the formation of these anomalies, highlighting the plasticity and adaptation of these animals to different conditions. This study contributes to the understanding of the underlying mechanisms of anomaly formation in the shell and emphasizes the importance of continuing research in this area.