How do growth rates differ between male and female California corbina, Menticirrhus undulatus?
There has been extensive research on croakers (Family Sciaenidae) in southern California with one notable exception,Menticirrhus undulatus, the California corbina. The lack of life history data such as the growth rate and natural history variation between male and female individuals leaves a gap in our understanding of this important recreational fish species. To solve this, I will examine otoliths and supplementary data from California corbina from 610 specimens collected between 1995 and 2010 along the Southern California Bight and compile a comprehensive data set. Then I will use otolith-based ageing to determine any patterns in growth rates and form an extensive understanding of the life history and ecology of the California corbina.
