Growth Patterns in a Newfoundland Atlantic Herring (Clupea harengus harengus) Stock

Abstract
Growth patterns in a discrete Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus harengus) stock were examined using back-calculated lengths derived from otolith measurements and empirical data. The influence of abiotic and biotic factors on growth was examined and evaluated for possible density-dependent or density-independent effects. The results give little evidence to support density-dependent herring growth in the 1st year, but suggest density-independent growth regulated by temperature. A growth compensation mechanism appears to occur in subsequent years resulting in a stable maturation pattern within the stock.Key words: herring, growth, density-dependent, density-independent, growth compensation, maturation