First record of Batrachoides surinamensis (Bloch & Schneider, 1801) and Canthidermis maculata (Bloch, 1786) (Pisces: Teleostei) from Rio Grande do Norte, northeastern coast of Brazil

Abstract

A new occurrence each of Batrachoides surinam­ensis and Canthidermis maculata is reported in the northeastern coast of Brazil. This report adds to the known records for both species and increases the regional marine fish richness to 461 species. Following these records, 1.6 tons of C. maculata were landed from May 2016 to January 2017, representing more than 1,500 individuals caught monthly. While it sheds light on the importance of C. maculata, the economic and social role of B. surinamensis remains unknown. Likewise, their conservation status is currently uncertain and further investigation is warranted.