Date of Award

Fall 2015

Project Type

Thesis

Program or Major

Zoology

Degree Name

Master of Science

First Advisor

David L Berlinsky

Second Advisor

William H Howell

Third Advisor

Steven J Parker

Abstract

Acadian redfish (Sebastes fasciatus) are a long-lived, slow growing, live-bearing fish species found in the Gulf of Maine region. Historically, this species once supported a substantial commercial fishery, however, overexploitation coupled with low reproductive output decimated natural populations. Strict regulatory measures were implemented and the population eventually recovered, however, knowledge of the current population status is essential to ensure that the population continues to be harvested at a sustainable rate. This study utilized otolith age readings and histological analysis of gonad tissue to determine current growth and maturity patterns in the Gulf of Maine S. fasciatus population. Growth functions obtained in this study differed between males and females, confirming past studies. The age at maturity (A50) estimate for female S. fasciatus obtained from this study was found to be higher than estimates obtained from past studies while the length at maturity (L50) estimate remained similar.

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