A review of NAFO 3LMN roughhead grenadier (Macrourus berglax Lacepède, 1801) reproductive biology including the evaluation of maturity ogive estimates.
A collection of 4770 histological slides collected in NAFO divisions 3LMN in a depth range from 200 to 1500 m and covering a time period between 2001 and 2015, has been reviewed to obtain information on reproductive biology of Macrourus berglax. Especial attention has been paid in atresia because it...
| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article in Journal/Newspaper |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
2016
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://hdl.handle.net/10508/10257 http://hdl.handle.net/10261/329222 |
| Summary: | A collection of 4770 histological slides collected in NAFO divisions 3LMN in a depth range from 200 to 1500 m and covering a time period between 2001 and 2015, has been reviewed to obtain information on reproductive biology of Macrourus berglax. Especial attention has been paid in atresia because its potential impact on stock productivity. Spatial and temporal variability of size and age at maturity of female roughhead grenadier was analyzed in NAFO divisions 3LMN based on microscopic maturity staging and individual age readings. Spawning capable females are homogeneously distributed nearly year-round, but in scarce numbers what prevent to define a spawning season. This statement united to the high levels of atresia could indicate a reproductive migration. We observed a clear decrease in length at first maturity (L50) of females from 27.8 cm in the period 2005-2011 to 25.6 cm in the last four years. The age at first maturity, A50, varied between 13.1 and 15 years, and there is not an evident trend of change over the years. SI |
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