Dolphin interactions with the mullet artisanal fishing on southern Brazil : a qualitative and quantitative approach

Abstract

A detailed analysis of the interactions between Tursiops /runco/us (Montagu, 1821) and the artisanal fishing of mullets (MugU spp.) is presented at two localities in the south of Brazil: Laguna (Santa Catarina) and Imberrramandai (Rio Grande do Sui). Its behavioral strategies and the advantages of their association are re-described and quantified based on the success of the capture and on the selectivity of the prey sizes. The mullets are the main resource involved (92 % to 75%) both at numerical level and as biomass. Twenty individuals ofTursiops /runcollls participated in the interactions in Laguna and 9 in Imberrramandai. The participation and learning of calves is also reported.