Age and Growth of the Dolphin, Coryphaena hippurus (Linnaeus), in North Carolina Waters

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Abstract
The validity of age determinations from scales of dolphin (Coryphaena hippurus) captured off the North Carolina coast is established. Specimens were obtained from the local charter boat fishery. The greatest age of dolphin examined was 3 years. None of the 3‐year‐old fish and few of the 2‐year‐old fish were females. Predominance of males in age‐groups II and III is believed to be caused by differential feeding habits of the sexes. Analysis of stomach contents indicates that older males may be more voracious feeders than older females; and, therefore, are more susceptible to capture by the hook‐and‐line fishery. Males are heavier than females throughout their complete length range. The body‐scale relation is efficiently described by linear regression. Theoretical fish length at the time of scale formation was 93.75 mm. Growth in length of male and female dolphin was not significantly different. Rate of growth was independent of year of collection. Length at time of first annular formation was 653 mm. Annual increments were 271 mm during the 2nd year, and 263 mm during the 3rd year.

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