Blepharipoda spinosa (H. Milne Edwards & Lucas, 1841) and Lepidopa chilensis Lenz, 1902 (Crustacea: Hippoidea) larvae on a north-central zone of Chile

Abstract

The larvae of Blepharipoda spinosa and Lepidopa chilensis were collected from Chile's north-central coast (Paposo 25.0ºS and Oscuro Port 31.5ºS) in each February of 2013-2017. Larvae were separated by their development stage. Their abundance, occurrence, and distribution concerning its proximity to the coast were analyzed. Larval abundance and frequency of occurrence were low in both species. Zoea I dominated the highest concentrations detected in coastal stations and near the study area's longest sandy beaches. Interannual variation of larvae was seen in the abundance and composition by development stages. The highest abundance of B. spinosa larvae was found in February 2016, while L. chilensis larvae had the highest abundance in February 2014. Their presence and development stages in the wide sampling area provide information on both species' distribution and reproductive activity.