The difference in the size structure of horse mackerel Trachurus capensis from trawl surveys between inshore and offshore areas

Abstract

Abstract by author:

This practical research report review the size distribution of the horse mackerel (Trachurus capensis) in Namibian waters. The percentage frequency of size classes in the inshore and offshore areas is covered and illustrated in both the figures and tables in the result section of the report. It was observed that the modal values of length changed very slightly in both inshore and offshore between 1999 and 2001. This might indicate a balanced growth and stable size distribution in the fishery. The survey data for 2001 on size distributions indicated that the average length of horse mackerel increases latitudinal (southwards) of both inshore and offshore. It was also verified that larger horse mackerel classes of 30cm predominate in the offshore areas compared to inshore areas. The geographical distribution aspect of the species is integrated and views supporting the distributional pattern of species are clearly outlined in this report