Composición por tallas y edades de la macarela Scomber japonicus de Bahía Vizcaíno, México

Abstract

The length and age composition of the mackerel Scomber japonicus in Bahía Vizcaino were determined from monthly samples obtained from commercial catches during 1984-1986. The standard length of the fish caught was between 176 and 363 mm, and they were between 1 and 8 years old. The mean values of the standard length during 1984, 1985 and 1986 were 238, 250, and 253 mm. Fish of different ages and sizes were present in distinct periods of the year. Annual recruitments to the fishery were detected between November and April, whereas the older and larger fish were caught between May and August. Fish of 4 + years represented more than 70% of total catch. They had spawned at least once. Comparing the length and age composition of the mackerel we found with those of mackerel caught in other areas, we infer that it is possible to increase the exploitation rates of these fish in Bahía Vizcaino.