New bathymetric record for the fish bighead mora, Laemonema verecundum (Gadiformes: Moridae) in the Gulf of California, Mexico

Abstract Background: The presence of Laemonema verecundum (Jordan & Cra mer, 1897) had not been previously reported at depths less than 666 m. Goals: The objective of the research was to study the bathymetric distribution of L. verecundum. Methods: In the eastern continental shelf of the Gulf of California, 648 specimens of L. verecundum were collec ted during two experimental research cruises in September 2004 and February 2005. Results: Specimens were collected at depths between 165 and 483 m, where temperatures ranged between 9.5 and 19.9° C, and average oxygen concentration was 1.7 mg/l. Conclusions: This new record expands the known bathymetric distribution range of this species inhabiting shallow waters in the gulf.