NURSERY AREA CHARACTERISTICS OF PLEURONECTIDS IN COASTAL ALASKA, USA

Juveniles of four species of pleuronectid flatfishes were abundant in bays and nearshore areas around Kodiak Island, Alaska during August 19 91. flatfish nursery areas located in deep water bays such as those su rrounding Kodiak Island have not been previously reported. Age-0 rock sole (Pleuronectes bilineatus), flathead sole (Hippoglossoides elassod on), Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) and age-1 yellowfin sol e (Pleuronectes asper) were collected close to one another and at firs t appeared to share nursery areas. Closer examination of associated wi thin-bay distribution, depth, substrate, temperature and salinity data revealed characteristics which limited nursery area overlap. The majo r concentrations of juveniles of these species could usually be segreg ated by one or more of the physical parameters investigated. Based on the physical characteristics found to be most important in determining distribution of juveniles for each species; we hypothesize the follow ing relationships. Age-0 rock sole are found predominantly in water de pths less than 50 m, on sand or mixed sand substrate outside of or wit hin bays. Age-0 flathead sole are found predominantly in water depths greater than 40 m, on mud or mixed mud substrate throughout bays. Age- 0 Pacific halibut are found predominantly in water depths less than 40 m, on mixed sand substrate near or outside mouths of bays. Age-1 yell owfin sole are found predominantly in water depths less than 40 m, on mixed substrates at upper reaches of bays. These hypotheses will be fi eld tested, after which the relationships may be considered for applic ation to broader geographic areas.