Distribution and biology of blue hake, Antimora rostrata (Pisces: Moridae), along the mid-Atlantic Ridge and off Greenland

Data on Antimora rostrata are presented from 42°N on the mid-Atlantic Ridge to approximately 65°N on the slope off West and East Greenland, a north–south range of approximately 1400 nm (∼2600 km). The species occurred in the depth interval 669–3059 m in trawl and longline experiments that sampled the depth range 450–4300 m. Length frequencies indicated both latitudinal and depth-related variation. Around Greenland small specimens occurred at shallower depths (<1000 m) while larger specimens were more frequent deeper than 1000 m. Abundance peaked between 1200 and 2700 m with generally low or no catches shallower and deeper. Sagittal otoliths were examined for 302 specimens, and zonation patterns in transverse sections suggested the existence of annuli. Counts of presumed annuli indicated a maximum age of 25 years, and length-at-age indicated linear growth within the age range sampled. Females grow larger than males and seem to live longer. Estimates of natural mortality varied from 0.11 to 0.25. Estimates of growth and mortality rates correspond to those that might be expected in virgin populations.