Publication Date:
2019-02-15
Description:
Analysis of growth by year of hatching was estimated from the statolith growth increments of the oceanic squid Todarodes angolensis in three consecutive years. Samples were taken between November 1987 and February 1990 in the northern Benguela upwelling system. Growth increments suggested that hatching took place throughout the year and that the life cycle was ≈ 1 yr. From the onset of sexual maturity in the final third of the life cycle, growth rates were subject to considerable individual variation. Growth rate was significant highest in the 1987 year class, presumably because of exceptionally cool environmental conditions in the Benguela region. The response of T. angolensis to interannual environmental variability in the northern Benguela system is discussed. The results from this study suggest that it will be important to consider variability in growth rate in relation to environmental conditions, in future studies of squid age and growth.
Type:
Article
,
PeerReviewed
Format:
text
