Spawning site selection by European anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) in relation to oceanographic conditions in the Strait of Sicily

摘要: European anchovy egg occurrence and density data from summer surveys (1998–2007) oceanographic were examined to study the mechanisms that control spatial distribution of spawning habitat in Strait Sicily. Quotient analysis indicated preference for temperature (18–19°C), bottom depth (50–100 m), water column stability (13–14 cycle h−1), fluorescence (0.10–0.15 μg m−3 Chl a), salinity (37.5–37.6 PSU), current speed (0.20–0.25 m s−1) (26.7–26.8 kg m−3, σt). Canonical discriminant identified temperature, as major drivers habitat. Three 4 years which had lower abundance warmer years, with low values primary productivity. A geostrophic flowing through (the Atlantic Ionic Stream, AIS) was confirmed main source environmental variability structuring ground by its influence on both oceanography eggs. This 10-yr series demonstrates recurrent but also variable patterns flows distribution. lack freshwater flow this area appears depress productivity region, certain combinations conditions can elevate production some sub-areas most years or other fewer years. These temporal are consistent an ocean triad theory postulating processes enrichment, concentration, retention may help predict fishery yields.