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Does pleopod setation provide a measure of maturity in female southern rock lobsters Jasus edwardsii?

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-16, 16:38 authored by Caleb GardnerCaleb Gardner, Mills, D, Stewart FrusherStewart Frusher
Processes affecting the estimation of the size at onset of maturity (SOM) using ovigerous setae were investigated in southern rock lobsters Jasus edwardsii. Comparison of estimates of SOM based on ovigerous setae in samples collected during summer months (December-March) with those based on the presence of external eggs from winter months (June-August) indicated that ovigerous setae provide an accurate classification of maturity. Females with partially developed setation on pleopods are frequently observed in research catch-sampling projects and their maturity status was unclear. Our results show that these females with partially developed setae are most appropriately classed as immature, based on comparison between estimates of SOM determined by presence of external eggs or setae. The seasonal timing of field sampling affected estimates of SOM based on ovigerous setae, though tag-recapture data indicated that this was not associated with a loss of setae during a second annual moult. Estimates of SOM for populations of Jasus edwardsii around Tasmania can be based on maturity classification using ovigerous setae but care should be taken to ensure that seasonal timing of sampling is consistent.

History

Publication title

Scientia Marina

Volume

69

Pagination

123-131

ISSN

0214-8358

Department/School

Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies

Publisher

Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas

Place of publication

Spain

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Fisheries - wild caught not elsewhere classified

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