Taxonomic review of the guitarfishes, Rhinobatos link, 1790 (Chondrichthyes, Rhinobatidae) of Western Atlantic

Abstract

The present study aims to perform a taxonomic review of the guitarfishes from genus Rhinobatos (Chondrichthyes, Rhinobatidae) from Western Atlantic, with anatomical, morfological and morphometric characterization of the species, indicating geographic distribution of each e propose a identification key. Individuals from the Atlantic west coast will be analyzed, visiting research collections of the country and abroad, loan of specimens and collection of some when necessary. There will be taken photographs and 40 measurements of individuals of the three species (Rhinobatos lentiginosus, R. horkelli e R. percellens). The measures will receive multivariate statistic treatment to highlight differences e define relevant measures. There will be analyzed through dissection and/or radiographs the skeletal components: chondroneurocranium, sinarcual, count of vertebrae and radial elements associated to propterygium, mesopterygium and metapterygium, pectoral and pelvic girdle and skeletal elements of the clasper. The number and arrangement of the dorsal spines and the chromatic pattern will be analyzed. Illustrations and 3D models of the parts with significant differences will be design. (AU)