Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Thalassas, cilt.41, sa.3, 2025 (SCI-Expanded)
Merlangius merlangus is a species of notable economic significance. In this study, its population parameters—including length–weight relationships, age structure, growth patterns, and mortality rates—were assessed in the Sea of Marmara. Samples were collected using trawl nets at 34 stations between March 2017 and December 2018. A total of 4,978 specimens were analyzed, with total lengths ranging from 5.0 to 26.7 cm and weights from 2.03 to 167.3 g. The length–weight relationship indicated isometric growth across the population. The length distribution of age-determined individuals were 6.4–24.2 cm in total length. These data were used in the calculation of growth parameters. The estimated asymptotic length (L∞) was 24.65 cm, the growth coefficient (K) was 0.34 year⁻¹, and the theoretical age at zero length (t₀) was − 1.27 years. Individuals were aged between 0 and 4 years, and the maximum estimated lifespan (tmax) was 5.5 years. Mortality parameters were also calculated, revealing an exploitation rate (E) of 0.55 per year, suggesting considerable fishing pressure on the stock.