Abstract
Summary: An algorithm for estimating mean stage durations, the standard deviations associated with the means, and stage‐specific survivorships from stage frequency data is presented. The algorithm is based on an age‐structured, distributed delay simulation model which usesErlang distributions to determine the probability of maturity for individuals in each stage. If the data set extends beyond the first generation, the algorithm requires a fecundity rate, as well as stage frequencies, as input. Goodness‐of‐fit was measured using a weighted least squares calculation summed over all observed stages and all sampling dates.