F. Koster et al., Developing Baltic cod recruitment models. II. Incorporation of environmental variability and species interaction, CAN J FISH, 58(8), 2001, pp. 1534-1556
Citations number
53
Categorie Soggetti
Aquatic Sciences
Journal title
CANADIAN JOURNAL OF FISHERIES AND AQUATIC SCIENCES
We investigate whether a process-oriented approach based on the results of
field, laboratory, and modelling studies can be used to develop a stock-env
ironment-recruitment model for Central Baltic cod (Gadus morhua). Based on
exploratory statistical analysis, significant variables influencing surviva
l of early life stages and varying systematically among spawning sites were
incorporated into stock-recruitment models, first for major cod spawning s
ites and then combined for the entire Central Baltic. Variables identified
included potential egg production by the spawning stock, abiotic conditions
affecting survival of eggs, predation by clupeids on eggs, larval transpor
t, and cannibalism. Results showed that recruitment in the most important s
pawning area, the Bornholm Basin, during 1976-1995 was related to egg produ
ction; however, other factors affecting survival of the eggs (oxygen condit
ions, predation) were also significant and when incorporated explained 69%
of the variation in 0-group recruitment. In other spawning areas, variable
hydrographic conditions did not allow for regular successful egg developmen
t. Hence, relatively simple models proved sufficient to predict recruitment
of 0-group cod in these areas, suggesting that key biotic and abiotic proc
esses can be successfully incorporated into recruitment models.