Growth Parameters and Mortality Rates Estimated for Seven Data-Deficient Fishes from the Azores Based on Length-Frequency Data

Given the scarcity of information suitable for stock assessments, the growth and mortality of seven exploited marine fishes in Azorean waters were estimated based on length-frequency data. The studied species were Trachurus picturatus, Sparisoma cretense, Scomber colias, Scorpaena scrofa, Serranus atricauda, Seriola spp. and Aphanopus carbo. The growth parameters L-infinity (cm), k (year(-1)) and phi' estimated through the ELEFAN_GA_boot routine were set at 55.87, 0.08 and 2.39 for T. picturatus; 55.03, 0.11 and 2.53 for S. cretense; 55.93, 0.18 and 2.76 for S. colias; 61.11, 0.11 and 2.61 for S. scrofa; 52.10, 0.12 and 2.51 for S. atricauda; 107.33, 0.12 and 3.18 for Seriola spp.; and 133.16, 0.09 and 3.19 for A. carbo; respectively. The total mortality rate estimated using the length-converted catch curve method was 0.22, 0.35, 0.58, 0.32, 0.31, 0.39 and 0.22 year(-1); the natural mortality included 0.15, 0.20, 0.30, 0.20, 0.21, 0.21 and 0.16 year(-1); and fishing mortality rate 0.07, 0.15, 0.28, 0.12, 0.10, 0.18 and 0.06 year(-1), respectively, for the species mentioned. The relatively large sizes and slow growth with a low natural mortality rate indicate a high vulnerability to overfishing. Therefore, assessment and management initiatives are highly encouraged to ensure the sustainability of the resources.