Variation in larval growth can predict the recruitment of a temperate, seagrass-associated fish

Abstract

Understanding the factors leading to inter-annual variation in recruitment of animals with complex life cycles is a key goal for ecology and the sustainable management of animal resources, such as fisheries. We used otolith microstructure to determine larval growth rates of post-larval King George whiting, Sillaginodes punctata, in seagrass beds of Port Phillip Bay, Australia. Inter-annual variation in growth determined early in the pelagic, offshore larval-stage was highly correlated with post-larval abundance (a predictor of fishery recruitment). Sea surface temperature measured near the presumed spawning area off Western Victoria was significantly correlated with larval growth, and was al..