Publication Abstract

The use of market sampling to generate maturity ogives and to investigate growth, sexual dimorphism and reproductive strategy in central and south-western North Sea sole (Solea solea L.).

The use of market sampling to generate maturity ogives and to investigate growth, sexual dimorphism, maturation and reproductive strategy in North Sea sole (Solea solea L.).

P.J. Bromley

Market sampling data for North Sea Dover sole (Solea solea (L.)) from 1983-1996 were used to investigate the factors influencing sexual maturation, such as body size, age, geographical distribution, and their annual and seasonal trends. The data were summarised using a general linear model, and the value of market sampling data for the generation of maturity ogives to estimate spawning stock biomass was discussed. A number of uncertainties with the general approach were identified. These stem from reliance on the commercial fishery to collect the fish samples and from the process of unaided visual staging of maturity. Despite some unresolved uncertainties, however, it was felt that general-purpose maturity ogives derived from market sampling data should be reasonably reliable for estimating the spawning stock biomass. Male and female sole are shown to have different growth and reproductive strategies, with the emphasis being directed towards maximising egg production.

Reference:

P.J. Bromley* (2003) The use of market sampling to generate maturity ogives and to investigate growth, sexual dimorphism and reproductive strategy in central and south-western North Sea sole (Solea solea L.). ICES Journal of Marine Science 60 (1), 52-65

P.J. Bromley*

ICES Journal of Marine Science 60 (1), 52-65