Oceanic
Reproduction, Growth, and Ex Situ Behavior of Elasmobranchs
This line of research is developed in association with the Laboratory of Biology and Fisheries Technology (BioTecPesca – Institute of Biology/UFRJ), focusing on elasmobranch species of the Brazilian ichthyofauna, such as the electric rays Narcine brasiliensis (Olfers, 1831) and Hypanus guttatus (Bloch & Schneider, 1801), as well as species already recognized as threatened and prohibited from being fished, like the butterfly ray Gymnura altavela (Linnaeus, 1758). The studies associated with this research line address major knowledge gaps concerning these species and respond to demands from public authorities, the productive sector, and academia. They also emphasize raising awareness among the general population and consumers who are directly or indirectly connected to the fishing, processing, and consumption of sharks and rays. The research also includes studies that correlate the extent of environmental impacts and their consequences on the quality of life of elasmobranchs that inhabit degraded ecosystems. These studies allow for the characterization of metals and the expression of proteins, metalloproteins, and enzymes in different fish organs exposed to environmental contamination, both in the wild and under human care. The research is carried out in partnership with the Laboratory for Environmental Health Assessment and Promotion (Oswaldo Cruz Institute/Fiocruz). The results not only help identify the scale of environmental degradation, but also provide essential data for human health and food safety.
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