Larval development of the freshwater croaker Pachypops fourcroi (La Cepede 1802) (Perciformes: Sciaenidae)

Summary: The study describes the larval ontogeny of Pimelodus blochii, providing insights into the growth pattern and morphological characteristics throughout development. Different regression models were used to analyze developmental stages, showing a deceleration in structural modeling during flexion/post-flexion stages and an acceleration in post-flexion/early juvenile period. The study helps to differentiate Pimelodus blochii from other congeneric species in the lower Amazon river based on meristic characters.