Distribution and density of juvenile fish in Khouzestan coastal waters

During one year survey (January to December 2007), Khouzestan coastal waters in the north west of Persian Gulf were examined to investigate juvenile fishes distribution, density and biomass. Monthly juvenile fish samples were caught using a 360 hp research vessel towing a 24 mm mesh size bottom trawl. Trawling was carried out at 10 randomly selected stations. Distribution map for dominant species was prepared and biomass and CPUA was estimated in the study area. Highest and lowest CPUA was observed in October and December, repectively.Biomass fluctuations showed increasing trend during warm seasons.Significant correlation was recorded between environmental parameters (water temperature and salinity) with biomass and number of species per month in the study area.