Growth, mortality, maturity, and recruitment of the star drum (Stellifer lanceolatus) in the southern Gulf of Mexico

Abstract

The star drum Stellifer lanceolatus (Holbrook 1855) is a dominant species along the western part of the Campeche coastline, southern Gulf of Mexico, and it is regularly caught as bycatch in the seabob shrimp (Xiphopenaeus kroyeri) fishery. It is not commercially important but plays an important role in the transfer of energy through the ecosystem. The spatial and temporal abundance of the species allowed the identification of clear preferences in spatial size distribution. The von Bertalanffy growth model showed seasonal fluctuations and was defined by the following parameters: L_∞ = 18.5 cm, K = 0.4 yr^–1, t₀ = –0.083 yr^–1, C = 0.63, WP = 0.8, and Rn = 0.254. The parameters of the length-weight relationship were a = 0.52 × 10^–6 (condition factor) and b = 3.16, indicating isometric growth (t_0.05(2), P > 0.05) with a correlation coefficient of 0.97. The monthly condition factor was lower from February to August and increased from September to November, associated with the maturity stage. Size and age at first maturity were 9.2 cm and 1.64 yr, respectively. Total mortality rate was 1.68 yr^–1. Recruitment was continuous with a main pulse from March to July. The life cycle of S. lanceolatus was determined, with reproduction occurring in the coastal zone, juveniles (< 9.2 cm) then moving closer to shore until attaining maturity, and returning as adults to deeper areas to reproduce. Further studies are necessary to relate its life cycle to the environment.