The reproductive biology of <i>Scyliorhinus canicula</i> in the Bristol Channel, U.K.

Abstract

Among 972 Scyliorhinus canicula , the overall sex ratio (males:females) was 1:1·23. Males matured between 490 and 540 mm L T with 50% maturity at 520 mm. Females matured between 520 and 640 mm L T with 50% maturity at 550 mm. Female gonadosomatic index peaked in May. Fecundity increased with fish length. The egg laying season lasted 10 months with a peak in June and July. The importance of erect, sessile invertebrates such as bryozoans, poriferans and hydroids as egg‐case deposition sites has been established. Recently hatched fish were born in an equal sex ratio and at a mean length of 100·5 mm and mean weight of 3·07 g. One intersexual fish is described.