Age, growth and sexual development of solenette, Buglossidium luteum (Risso, 1810), in the central Aegean Sea

P>Age, growth, spawning period and maturity of the solenette (Buglossidium luteum Risso, 1810) were studied in the central Aegean Sea to provide fisheries managers with essential data for science-based management. A total of 1220 samples were collected by trawl hauls from July 2004 to June 2007 in Izmir Bay (Turkey). Sample sizes ranging from 5.3 to 11.6 cm total length were composed of 46% females, 32% males and 22% immature individuals, with a female to male ratio of 1 : 0.7. Age composition stages of the females were from I to IV, and males between I and III. The length-weight relationship was calculated as W = 0.0101L3.008 for all samples. Estimated von Bertalanffy growth parameters were L-infinity = 13.30 cm, t(o) = -0.440 year and k = 0.481 year-1, with a growth performance index of 1.93 (phi'). The spawning period began in April and continued until July. Lengths at first maturity of females and males were 8.1 and 7.9 cm total length, respectively. Both sexes matured at the age of 2 years.