Growth parameters and mortality rates of Liza klunzingeri in the Iranian waters of the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea, using Length Frequency Data

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to investigate the population dynamics of Liza klunzingeri, in Hormouzgan province waters located in northern coasts of the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea. This study was carried out from October 2007 to September 2008. samples were collected from commercial stake traps. The relationship between weight and fork length was found to be W= 0.0214 F.L2.8233 suggesting that Liza klunzingeri shows isometric growth. Length-based stock assessment using the FiSAT software package showed an asymptotic length (L∞) of 20.3cm FL and growth coefficient of 0.6.yr-1. These results gave a growth performance index (ø) of 2.39. The total mortality coefficient was estimated to be 2.31, a natural mortality of 1.09 and fishing mortality of 1.22. The estimated total mortality which, in relative terms, is considered average (2.31.yr-1), coupled with the currently observed exploitation rate of 0.52 for L. klunzingeri, estimated from the mortality rates, suggested that the species is moderately exploited.