Distribución en tiempo y espacio de las especies de sardina y macarela en Bahía Magdalena, B.C.S., México

Abstract

This paper deals with the temporal and spatial distribution of various species of sardine and chub mackerel, which form the bulk of the sardine fishery in Bahía Magdalena, B.C.S.. Monthly catch reports for these species over a period of 10 years (1972-1981), show a pattern of temporal distribution. Also, these patterns seem to be inter-related. There is a correlation between the temporal distribution and feeding habits, reproductive cycles and superficial water temperatures. The highest catches for Satdinops sagax caerulea (Girard) were recorded from April to September; for Opisthonema spp. (Gill), from November to January; for Etrumeus teres (Dekay), in March; and for Scomber japonicus (Houttuyn), in August. The first showed two spawning periods: one from January to March and a second one in June and July. However, the reproductive activíty of thread herring inside Bahía Magdalena is minimal (Summer and early Fall). The spawning period of Etrumeus teres was from May to July. Mackerel showed reproductive activíty from February to June.