Temporal distribution and larval morphological characteristics ofCoryphaena hippurus (Coryphaenidae) in the Ecuadorian Pacific

Abstract

The presence and distribution of Coryphaena hippurus larvae were analyzed in two coastal localities of the Ecuadorian Pacific, based on ichthyoplankton surveys
conducted between 2007 and 2025. Diagnostic traits based on meristic and morphological characters were evaluated to confirm taxonomic identity. The species
showed higher larval densities between February 2020 and June 2024. Larval stages were characterized by an elongated body, cephalic pigmentation and pigmentation distributed along the body, except in the terminal portion of the notochord, a prominent
supraocular spine, and four preopercular spines. In more advanced stages, increased pigmentation was observed, forming dark pigmented bands extending toward the dorsal and anal fins. This study provides updated evidence on the early life stages of C. hippurus in Ecuador and contributes to a better understanding of its distribution in the eastern Pacific.