Population parameters of Mullus barbatus in Izmir Bay (Aegean Sea), using length frequency analysis

Abstract

The growth and mortality of Mullus barbatus from Izmir Bay (Aegean Sea) was investigated based on length frequency data using the fisat software. Total length of the sampled 110 891 fish ranged from 5.0 to 23.0 cm. The seasonalized von Bertalanffy growth resulted in parameter values of L∞ = 24.26 cm, k = 0.565, t0 = −0.305, C = 0.27 and WP = 0.45. Potential lifespan was estimated to be 5.3 years. Total mortality (Z) based on the length converted catch curve was 3.70 (seasonal data) and 3.85 (non-seasonal data). Natural mortality (M) was 1.07 and the exploitation ratio (0.71–0.72) revealed an overfished stock.