Possible turbidity effects on post-larval fish composition in selected tropical regions along the Brazilian coast

Coastal ecosystems are vulnerable to structural changes caused by climatic forces, the introduction of exotic species, pollution, and the overexploitation of key species, resulting in significant impacts on their dynamics, as well as the loss of economic and ecological values. Inadequate human practices can cause direct and indirect disturbances to aquatic environments, releasing large quantities of suspended particles and thus increasing water turbidity. Turbidity is an often-underestimated variable that plays a crucial role in the structure of aquatic communities that can influence species composition and distribution. Thus, our aim is to analyze the effects of turbidity on the larval supply of fish in four marine areas located along the tropical coasts of southeastern and northeastern Brazil. We analyzed the composition of post-larval fish species and water turbidity data collected over 5 years of monitoring in coastal areas impacted by the collapse of the Mariana iron ore tailings dam (MG, Brazil). We observed higher diversity under intermediate turbidity conditions, suggesting that such environments may offer a balance between predator avoidance and resource availability. In contrast, high turbidity tends to simplify larval assemblages by favoring more tolerant species and reducing ecological complexity. Therefore, we emphasize the need for continued research and long-term monitoring of turbidity levels to support the conservation of aquatic ecosystems. Such efforts are essential for informing effective mitigation strategies and guiding the sustainable management of environments experiencing varying degrees of turbidity.