PDF MF07032.pdf | Request a copy Full text restricted Available under University of Tasmania Standard License.

Abstract

Generating age estimates for long-lived fish requires particular attention to validation because they are usually difficult to age owing to narrow increment structure. A robust validation of the accuracy and precision of banded morwong, Cheilodactylus spectabilis, sampled from Tasmanian waters, was undertaken. Age at the first enumerated increment was established from analysis of juvenile cohorts, and the timing and periodicity of increment formation was established using a quantitative model from oxytetracycline (OTC) mark-recaptures at liberty for periods of up to 8 years. The accuracy of age estimates was examined independently by comparing radiocarbon values in the otolith region corresponding to the first year of growth against the south-western Pacific calibration curve. C. spectabilis is very long-lived, with males and females living to over 90 years of age. Growth modelling revealed a fast initial growth phase, terminating in an abrupt plateau near the asymptotic length. This species displays substantial sexual dimorphism in growth, with males growing to larger sizes than females.

Item Type:	Article
Authors/Creators:	Ewing, GP and Lyle, JM and Murphy, RJ and Kalish, JM and Ziegler, PE
Keywords:	Cheilodactylidae; Longevity
Journal or Publication Title:	Marine and Freshwater Research
ISSN:	1323-1650
DOI / ID Number:	https://doi.org/10.1071/MF07032
Additional Information:	Copyright CSIRO 2007
Related URLs:	Publisher
Item Statistics:	View statistics for this item

Actions (login required)

Item Control Page