ISSN:
1432-2056
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract The distribution and abundance of the onychoteuthid squid Moroteuthis ingens were assessed for the Patagonian Shelf in the Falkland Islands region. Catch records from the commercial fishery and a research cruise were recorded from 1988 to 1996. Sampling included benthic, pelagic and semi-pelagic trawls and jigging. Moroteuthis ingens was recorded from 1,414 stations out of a total of 9,060 stations with 79.9% of all positive stations being from benthic trawls. Catch size ranged up to approximately 3,000 kg. The length frequency analysis and maturity indices suggested a major recruitment onto the shelf in September with a movement off the shelf during winter. There appears to be a lack of mature females on the Patagonian Shelf, indicating that females migrate into deeper offshore water to spawn. Observations of predation on Moroteuthis ingens on the Patagonian Shelf, along with a literature review, revealed that at least 4 mammal, 17 bird and 13 fish species prey on this squid.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s003000050292
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