Variations in fecundity and size at sexual maturity of female rock lobster Jasus lalandii in the Benguela ecosystem |
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| Abstract: | Fecundity of female rock lobster Jasus lalandii was studied in order to examine whether regional differences existed along the west coast of South Africa, where growth rates (at least of males) were known to vary considerably. The study, in August/September 1985, included all major rock-lobster Fishing grounds from Port Nolloth in the north to Olifantsbos on the Cape Peninsula in the south. Earlier studies showed that growth rates of adult rock lobsters are fast in areas where per capita food availability is high (the south-central region of the West Coast), whereas growth rates were slower where food supplies are limited. The results presented indicate that fecundity of females is also higher in areas where growth rates of males are fast. Year-to-year variations in fecundity of females may possibly be an indicator of growth rates of adult rock lobsters. |
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