INFLUÊNCIA DO AMBIENTE NA ESTRUTURA DE TAMANHO E BIOMASSA DA Emerita brasiliensis (Schimitt, 1935) NA PRAIA BRAVA E GUARDA DO EMBAÚ

Abstract

Emerita brasiliensis is an important species of Brazilian macrofauna, they are inhabitants of the intertidal areas, and have important components that enable their use as biological indicators environmental. Therefore, the objective was to analyze the relationship between population and size of individuals of Eremita brasiliensis, comparing two beaches on the coast of Santa Catarina, being Praia brava in Itajaí, with an increasing level of urbanization and Guarda do Embaú Beach in Paulo Lopes, which has a stationary degree. The collections took place in March and September 2016, with the sample area parallel to the sand and intertidal strips for a systematic sampling observing the estimated time for low tide. For collection, a 20cm diameter PVC cylinder was used and buried at a depth of 20cm. The samples were arranged in a 0.5mm opening mesh and sent to the laboratory, where the organisms of the genus Emerita brasiliensis were separated and identified for the measurement of biomorphometric data, observing the lateral diameter and rostro-caudal length of the carapace. The biomass weighing was performed before and after the drying procedure, performed in a controlled temperature oven at 37ºC for 48 hours. For statistical analysis, the ANOVA test was used. Based on the individuals collected, it is observed Guarda do Embaú beach with more individuals when compared to Brava Beach. Statistical data show a significant difference between the months and the beaches, which is justified by the state of conservation of Guarda do Embaú beach, which remains static due to its low urbanization. Therefore, it is concluded that the difference between Emerita Brasiliensis communities is due to changes in local dynamics, such as anthropic trampling and sediment change. The results were not accurate due to the low number of samples, but are significant and relevant for further research.