Filling gaps in the biology of the endemic and threatened freshwater shrimp Macrobrachium candango (Caridea: Palaemonidae) through basic morphometric and reproductive approaches

Macrobrachium candango Mantelatto, Pileggi, Pantaleão, Magalhães, Villalobos and Álvarez, 2021 is an endemic shrimp species to the Brazilian Central-West region (Brasília, Federal District). The present study aims analyze relative growth, morphometry, morphological sexual maturity, fecundity of this species. Specimens were collected from tributaries Paranoá Lake hydrographic basin, Brasília, during sporadic periods between 1983 2012. Relative growth was analyzed for different structures (carapace, abdomen, second abdominal pleura, merus, carpus, propodus). laterality heterochely patterns evaluated based on dimensions propodus length. Fecundity calculated as average total number eggs per female egg size measured obtain volume. There differences in (p < 0.05) juveniles adults, distinct allometric observed life stages, which could reflect habit these animals at each developmental stage. No pattern chelipeds > 0.05). lack may indicate that directs energy smallest when largest injured. Egg volume ranged 4.41 7.71 mm3, 38 61 eggs, indicating a cycle with abbreviated larval development. characteristics presented herein are unprecedented M. relevant information needed assess conservation status species, currently threatened.