Growth of Polar cod (Boreogadus saida) in the Barents Sea

Abstract

Observed length-at-age, and backcalculated lengths based on otolith measurements, from samples of polar cod collected in the Barents Sea in autumn of 1987 to 1989, were analysed. An increase in individual length growth of one-year-olds was observed from 1987 to 1989. Indications of a slower growth among the fish collected in the eastern areas compared to those sampled further west, were evident all three years. The growth histories of the year classes 1984 and 1985 showed similar patterns, while the fishes of the year class 1986 had a faster growth in their second year of life. The growth seemed to be quite linear up to age three for the first two year classes, while the 1986 year class showed a decreasing trend in growth with age. For all three year classes there is a gradual decrease in growth for increasing age.