Reproductive Dynamics of the Large Yellow Croaker Larimichthys crocea (Sciaenidae), A Commercially Important Fishery Species in China

The large yellow croaker Larimichthys crocea (Richardson, 1846) (Sciaenidae) is distributed in southern Yellow Sea, East China and northern South Sea of a commercially important nearshore fishery species. L. was listed on the IUCN Red List as “Critically Endangered” 2020 mainly due to over-exploration its spawning over-wintering aggregations 1950s–1980s throughout distribution region. However, detailed studies reproductive dynamics were limited past three decades. In this study, examined traditional Guanjingyang (GJY) ground, one 15 well-known ones Samples collected using set nets from April 2019 November 2021 ensure at least 20 samples for all 12 months. A total 1,006 individuals caught, ranging 46 391 mm standard length (SL) 1.45 1,110.05 g body weight (BW). growth dimorphism found between sexes with females heavier than males when sizes exceeded 61 SL (non-parametric ANCOVA, p < 0.01). Gonad histology revealed, first time, that able spawn almost year-round both males. Two peaks, spring autumn, identified March May June October minimum sexual maturity 160 112 male. 50% 187.2 150.2 Results showed female decreased about 20% six peaks 2 months earlier 1 month extension autumn GJY. Clearly, national fishing moratorium regulation August, an management measure China, can only protect peak partly. Further evaluation influence climate change strategies stock recruitment highly recommended.