Publication Date:
2021-08-05
Description:
This paper presents data on the population structure, maturation patterns, fecundity, reproduction, and length–weight relationships of the European squid, Loligo vulgaris, in the Central Adriatic Sea. This species is one of the most valuable commercial cephalopods in the fishery of the Adriatic Sea, yet the population structure and reproductive biology are poorly known. The data are based on the analysis of 1583 individuals caught between 1998 and 2000 along the Croatian coast. In the major part of the year the sex ratio was close to 1:1, but in certain months males outnumbered females. Males were dominant in the smallest and the largest individuals, but at medium lengths females dominated. The length–weight relationship and dorsal mantle length at first sexual maturity for both sexes is given. Male and female reproductive outputs were counted and measured. Oocytes from the ovaries and oviducts of mature females were at various phases of development. Monthly changes of maturity indices, coefficients and frequency of appearance of advanced maturity stages showed a pattern of seasonal development with low values during summer and very high values during winter and spring. The spawning peaks were between January and May, but mature individuals were caught in all months, indicating that in the Central Adriatic Sea this species spawns throughout the year.
Type:
Article
,
PeerReviewed
Format:
text
