Determination of age and growth parameters of Otolithes ruber in Persian Gulf waters (Hormuzgan)

Abstract The study of age and growth of aquatics is basic and necessary information for further fisheries management. By aging the fishes, we can estimate the population dynamics parameters such as growth and mortality rates. In this study the Otolithes ruber (Tiger toothed croaker) was selected as one of the most important and commercial species for aging from September 2008 to November 2009. During 15 months, a total of 540 specimens were collected and 238 sagitta otoliths were extracted and then were sectioned in laboratory using microtome cutter. The sectioned otoliths were aged by reading the increment rings. The overall Von-Bertalanffy growth equation was estimated as L(t)= 72(1-e -0.151(t+1.369)). The smallest fish was 18 cm total length and with an estimated age of 0.25 yrs; and the biggest size was 54 cm with the age of 8 yrs. The Length-weight relationship was found as W=0.0064 TL3.1268. The natural mortality of croaker was estimated 0.4604 per year.