Maturity studies of Barents Sea capelin: Variations in length at maturity for female capelin

Abstract

The sexual maturation of female capelin in the Barents Sea is studied using a new method based on microscope investigation of eggs. A "length at maturity" (L) is defined, and a method for synthesizing the data is developed. The value of L is found to vary considerably between age groups, between areas, and from one year to the next. Some consequences %or the TAC calculating procedure are discussed.