Aspects of the biology of blackspot seabream (Pagellus bogaraveo) in the Ionian Sea, Greece

The biology of Pagellus bogaraveo (Brünnich, 1768) along the west coast of Greece (Ionian Sea, Eastern Mediterranean Sea) was studied, based on data collected during experimental fishing in depths between 200 and 550 m and from observations on commercial fishery vessels, during March to August 2001. Total length ranged from 15 to 40 cm. The length–weight relationship for all individuals was described by the following parameters: α = 0.000020 and b = 2.9339. The determination of age was done by observing and analysing whole otoliths (sagitta) and scales. Fish aged 1–13 years were found. The von Bertalanffy growth parameters based on data from otoliths were L∞ = 49.2 cm, k = 0.106 year−1 and t0 = −1.81 for males and L∞ = 49.5 cm, k = 0.100 year−1 and t0 = −2.29 for females, whereas based on scale reading were L∞ = 46.1 cm, k = 0.082 year−1 and t0 = −3.40 for males and L∞ = 52.8 cm, k = 0.059 year−1 and t0 = −4.73 for females. Some mature specimens, mainly females, were caught in March. The overall sex ratio of males to females was 1:1.29.