Reproduction, distribution and abundance of Bothus constellatus (Pisces : Bothidae), in the Gulf of Tehuantepec, Mexico

A total of 3 593 individuals of Bothus constellatus was captured during fiv e oceanographic cruises carried out in the Gulf of Tehuantepec, Mexico. Its distribution, abundance, and reproduction patterns were stated by means of the analysis of the population parameters (i.e. density, biomass, weight a nd size average, visceral and gonadosomatic index, and maturity stages). B. constellatus is a typical demersal marine species, because it does not occ ur in estuaries, but occurs near to them on the continental shelf. It is di stributed in the Gulf of Tehuantepec in depths lesser than 60 m, with high abundance around the 40 m isobath, and in front of Mar Muerto Lagoon. Durin g January and May the biomass and density were high. The size at first matu rity of females is 101 mm total length, and maturation occurs first in zone s influenced by estuarine processes. Reproduction and recruitment were dete cted in all the collections.