Spawning stock dynamics of two penaeid prawns, Metapenaeus bennettae and Penaeus esculentus, in Moreton Bay, Queensland, Australia

摘要: Spawning stock dynamics of 2 commercially important penaeid prawns, Metapenaeus bennettae and Penaeus esculentus, from 9 stations in Moreton Bay (27°15'S, 153°15'E), southeast Queensland, Australia, were examined. An egg production index (EPI), based on the relative abundance, proportion that mature or ripe, size adult females, was used as a measure populations. Egg by M. 20 to 30 higher than P. extended over 7 8 mo each year peaked February March (late summer early autumn). Monthly patterns varied between years. In contrast, esculentus produced most its eggs single, clearly defined peak October (spring), although continued (early autumn) year. The seasonal onset subsequent decline maturation rapid. several times at 5 northern 4 southern negatively correlated with salinity during main spawning period. less among positively depth. appeared more likely experience recruitment overfishing because (1) period for dependent relatively few females short period, (2) selectivity trawl nets bay much spawners those bennettae. Compared populations, matured larger size, had lower incidences insemination ripe shorter These results suggest likelihood increases increasing latitude.