Biology (growth and reproduction) of the Mediterranean deep-water rose shrimp (Parapenaeus longirostris (Lucas, 1846), Crustacea, Decapoda) from the Alicante Gulf (s.e. Spain).

Abstract

The deep-water rose shrimp (Parapenaeus longirostris) is a demersal species and an important resource for the trawl fishery in the Alicante Gulf (S.E. Spain). This paper describes, for first time in this area, certain biometric relationships, as well as growth parameters and reproductive patterns of the species. The results showed a sexual size dimorphism, with a negative allometry of relative growth and high rates of absolute growth, both particularly in males. However, females dominated in the catch proportion. The spawning period occurred throughout the year, but especially in June-July and in October-November and the maturation stage for females takes place within the second year of life