Some biological parameters of the Striped red mullet (Mullus surmuletus L.) from the Bay of Edremit (Northern Aegean Sea, Turkey)

Abstract

Growth, sex ratio, and reproduction of striped red mullet (Mullus surmuletus L.) were determined from 520 specimens collected in the northwestern Aegean coast of Turkey from September 2009 to July 2010. Total length ranged from 7.7 to 17.0 cm while weight varied between 3.50 and 58.9 g. According to the length-weight relationship, positive allometry was confirmed for both sexes. The sex ratio was skewed in favour of males (1: 1.73). The monthly values of gonadosomatic index (GSI) of females indicated that spawning occurred mainly between April and September with a peak in July. Values of Condition factor (CF) and Hepatosomatic index (HSI) varied between 0.71-1.57 and 0.10-1.43, respectively.