Sole larval distribution (Solea solea) in the eastern English Channel and Southern Bight of the North Sea

The distribution of sole (Solea solea) eggs and larvae were described from two cruises conducted in April and May 1995 along the French coast of the e astern English Channel and the Belgian coast of the Southern Bight of the N orth Sea. Sole migration was investigated using larval stages and univariat e spatial analysis as geostatistics (variograms). Important environmental p arameters were selected by comparison with larval distribution. Path analys is was used to remove spatial correlation and to define links between abund ance and environmental variables. Sole larvae were found to be coastal throughout their development. Strong l inks between larval distribution and environmental parameters were identifi ed, particularly for the younger stages which were found in higher abundanc e in areas of high chlorophyll-a concentration. The association was not dir ect, suggesting that the larval spatial distribution was influenced by an u ndetermined, intermediate variable, such as larval prey. Sole larvae are re tained in the coastal area throughout ontogeny despite the strong hydrodyna mics which characterize the region. Larval distribution resulted from behav ioural mechanisms as well as environmental influences.