Species Profiles: Life Histories and Environmental Requirements of Coastal Fishes and Invertebrates (Pacific Northwest): English Sole
Abstract
Species profiles are literature summaries of the taxonomy, morphology, distribution, life history, ecological role, and environmental requirements of coastal aquatic species. They are prepared to assist coastal managers, engineers, and biologists in the gathering of information pertinent to coastal development activities. The English sole is a major contributor to Pacific Northwest trawl fisheries and is used extensively in the fillet-of-sole trade. Spawning is usually most intense during winter, but occurs in all seasons. Temperature conditions before spawning and during the egg and larval stages are critical to subsequent year-class strength. Hatching success is apparently greatest at salinities and temperatures of 25-28 ppt and 8-9 C. Postlarvae settle in open-coast and estuarine areas. Densities of rearing juveniles are highest in lower estuaries. Growth may be inhibited at temperatures above 17.5 C. Emigration from nursery areas to deeper, sand-bottomed offshore areas occurs during late summer and fall. Juveniles and adults feed on a wide variety of benthic invertebrates. Female English sole grow faster and mature later (3-4 years) than males (2-3 years). Females are more susceptible to capture in the multi-species trawl fisheries that typify Pacific Northwest ground fishing. Keywords: Parophrys vetulus. (aw)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA214303
Entities
People
- Dennis R. Lassuy
Organizations
- Oregon State University